The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced that the federal government plans to invest $2 billion in the deployment of a 90,000-kilometre fibre optic network across the country.
Tijani made this disclosure during a visit to Kano State on Monday as part of a tour of the National Communications Commission’s digital innovation park, which had been vandalized by irate youths during the nationwide protests in August.
He explained that the project aims to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic cable infrastructure from 35,000 km to 125,000 km, enhancing the country’s terrestrial fibre optic backbone.
The investment is expected to significantly improve connectivity for communities, hospitals, businesses, and the agricultural sector.
“To support this vision the Ministry of Communications, innovations, and Digital Economy is committed to deepening Nigeria’s digital backbone, through the national broadband alliance and in collaboration with the Kano State government, we are simplifying the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in the kano digital economy. This partnership will facilitate further investment in connectivity, ensuring that Kano becomes a true digital hub”
He further said that today’s world technology is the key to unlocking productivity and ensuring the diversification of Nigeria’s economy and that Kano has the highest number of participants with over 300 young people.
“This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology, and talent while strengthening our local industries, these young people represent the future, not only of Nigeria but of the global digital workforce”
The minister while commending the IHS towers for their commitment towards rebuilding the park, also addressed the rumours of relocating the park from Kano, that the building will remain in Kano State as a symbol of Kano and Nigeria’s aspiration to be at the forefront of the global digital economy for a prosperous future.