Nigeria is set to embark on one of its most ambitious broadband infrastructure programmes yet, as telecommunications operators prepare for a $2 billion national fibre-optic rollout under Project BRIDGE, a landmark initiative expected to drive the country’s digital transformation from 2026.
Project BRIDGE — Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth — is a federally backed programme aimed at massively expanding Nigeria’s fibre-optic backbone, improving broadband access, and unlocking growth across the digital economy. The initiative is being implemented with strong backing from the World Bank and other development partners, alongside significant private-sector participation.
What Project BRIDGE Entails
Under the plan, Nigeria’s existing fibre infrastructure is expected to be expanded by approximately 90,000 kilometres, increasing total national fibre capacity to about 125,000 kilometres. This would place Nigeria among countries with the largest terrestrial fibre networks in Africa.
The project is structured as a public-private partnership, with a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to be created. Private investors are expected to hold majority equity, while government participation will be capped, a model designed to encourage efficiency, transparency and long-term sustainability.
The network will operate on an open-access basis, allowing multiple telecom operators and internet service providers to use the infrastructure. Fibre connections are planned for all 774 local government areas, with priority access for schools, hospitals, and public institutions.
World Bank Support and Financing
The World Bank has approved an initial $500 million concessional financing facility for Project BRIDGE, with disbursement tied to clearly defined governance and implementation milestones. Additional funding is expected from other multilateral institutions and private investors, bringing the total investment value to an estimated $2 billion.
According to officials, the financing structure is designed to address long-standing market gaps that have discouraged telecom operators from investing in rural and underserved areas.
Impact on the Digital Economy
Government and industry stakeholders believe the fibre rollout could be transformative:Improved broadband penetration and quality, particularly outside major urban centresJob creation across construction, engineering, network maintenance and digital servicesGrowth in technology-driven sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, education and healthcare
Increased productivity and GDP contribution from the ICT sectorThe Minister of Communications, Digital Economy and Innovation has described Project BRIDGE as a critical step toward ensuring that digital access is no longer determined by geography.
Timeline and Expectations
While preparatory work and pilot deployments are expected to begin earlier, full-scale rollout is planned for 2026, with phased implementation across states and regions. The establishment of the SPV and the achievement of early milestones are key triggers for funding release and large-scale construction.
Challenges Ahead
Despite strong optimism, analysts caution that the project faces potential hurdles, including right-of-way issues, regulatory coordination, and the need to ensure affordable last-mile connectivity for end users. Sustained political will and private-sector confidence will be critical to success.
Outlook
If successfully implemented, Project BRIDGE could mark a turning point for Nigeria’s digital economy, positioning the country as a regional connectivity hub and laying the foundation for inclusive economic growth driven by technology.
The coming years will determine whether the ambitious $2 billion fibre rollout delivers on its promise to connect millions more Nigerians to fast, reliable broadband.
