Nigeria is rapidly expanding its fiber optic network through Project Bridge and other initiatives, aiming to deploy over 90,000 km of new fiber to enhance broadband access nationwide.

National Initiatives

The Nigerian government launched Project Bridge in 2025 to significantly expand the country's fiber optic infrastructure. The project targets the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fiber over five years, connecting all 774 local government areas, schools, hospitals, and underserved communities . This expansion will increase Nigeria's existing 35,000 km of fiber to a total of 125,000 km, making it the third-largest fiber backbone in Africa after Egypt and South Africa . Project Bridge operates under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), structured as a public-private partnership to attract private sector investment and expertise, with the government holding a minority stake of 25–49% .

Private Sector and Telecom Contributions

Private companies have also contributed to fiber deployment. For instance, IHS Nigeria, through its subsidiary Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL), has rolled out over 10,000 km of fiber across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, including Fiber-to-the-Tower (FTTT) infrastructure to support next-generation technologies like 5G . These deployments are designed on an open-access, shared infrastructure basis, allowing multiple operators to utilize the network efficiently .

State-Level Deployments

State-owned initiatives, such as Galaxy Backbone, have deployed over 5,000 km of fiber across 28 states, connecting state capitals, federal institutions, ministries, and private enterprises . These networks support digital governance, enterprise-grade services, and innovation ecosystems, including Tier III and Tier IV data centers, Network Operating Centres (NOC), and Security Operations Centres (SOC), .

Strategic Goals and Impact

The fiber optic expansion aligns with Nigeria's National Broadband Plan (2020–2025), which aims for 70% broadband penetration by 2025 and 80% for underserved populations by 2027 . The initiative is expected to boost internet access, digital inclusion, and economic growth, with research indicating that every 10% increase in broadband penetration can yield a 1.38% GDP growth in developing countries . Project Bridge and complementary private deployments are critical to ensuring high-speed, resilient, and equitable broadband connectivity across urban and rural areas .

Conclusion

Nigeria's fiber optic cable laying efforts represent a comprehensive national strategy combining government-led projects, private sector participation, and state-level initiatives. With Project Bridge and ongoing deployments, the country is poised to close the digital divide, enhance ICT infrastructure, and support the growth of its digital economy.