USTDA awards grant to Nigeria for fiber optic infrastructure feasibility study

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has awarded a grant to Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE). The grant will fund a feasibility study aimed at expanding internet access for 12 million people through the deployment of 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic backbone infrastructure across the country.

The study, which aligns with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, will assess the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure along existing routes, including the national power grid, railways, roads, and oil and gas pipelines. It will also identify gaps in the current backbone infrastructure market and develop strategies to strengthen connectivity, particularly for underserved and hard-to-reach communities. Washington, D.C.-based HIP Consult Inc. has been selected to conduct the study.

Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA Director, expressed enthusiasm for the project during the grant signing ceremony at the Inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue held at the U.S. Department of State. "As Nigeria and the United States deepen our cooperation in the technology sector, USTDA is proud to partner with FMCIDE to deliver concrete action in support of our shared digital infrastructure goals," Ebong said. "This project will help expand connectivity to Nigeria’s urban and rural communities while opening opportunities for trusted U.S. technologies to advance the country’s digital priorities."

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized the importance of the project for Nigeria’s digital transformation. “I am pleased to receive this grant from USTDA to fund this feasibility study, which is a critical component of our plan to deploy 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across Nigeria," he said. "This is further testament to our long-standing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in technology infrastructure development. I look forward to further collaboration and investments from partners in the U.S. government and private sector, especially in projects like these that support the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

The initiative is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to increase broadband penetration from the current 42.27% to 70% and ensure that at least 90% of the population has access to affordable and reliable broadband services by 2025. The project also aims to foster innovation, create economic opportunities, and bridge the digital divide.

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, who opened the technology dialogue, hailed the partnership as a demonstration of the strong and growing relationship between Nigeria and the United States in the technology sector. "By working together on this critical infrastructure project, we are not only enhancing internet access for millions of Nigerians but also creating opportunities for U.S. businesses to contribute their expertise and innovative solutions," Campbell said.

U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard M. Mills, Jr. echoed these sentiments, calling the initiative a "significant milestone" in the partnership between the two nations. "By enhancing connectivity, we are not only bridging the digital divide but also creating inclusive economic opportunities for all Nigerians. This project will empower communities, foster innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth across the nation," he stated.

The Fiber Forward Project reflects the broader priorities of the U.S. government, including the Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, the Prosper Africa initiative, and the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment. It underscores a shared commitment to fostering economic growth, digital inclusion, and sustainable development in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye