FG launches 90,000km fibre rollout in October

The Federal Government (FG) has announced that Nigeria will begin its historic 90,000km fibre rollout in October 2024. This nationwide fibre optic network expansion is expected to transform broadband connectivity across the country, bridging the digital divide and unlocking new economic opportunities.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, confirmed the timeline during a stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja. He described the project as Africa’s largest fibre infrastructure initiative, designed to deliver high-speed internet to every state, including rural areas currently underserved by existing networks.

The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital transformation as a driver of economic growth and job creation. With internet penetration crucial for education, healthcare, and commerce, the fibre rollout is poised to become a game-changer for millions of Nigerians.

What is the FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout?

The FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout is a government-led infrastructure project aimed at deploying fibre optic cables across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Unlike previous broadband initiatives that relied on partial or urban-centric rollouts, this project promises full national coverage, ensuring that even remote communities can access reliable, high-speed internet.

Fibre optic technology uses thin glass fibres to transmit data as pulses of light, offering speeds up to 100 times faster than traditional copper cables. This upgrade will support Nigeria’s growing digital economy, which includes fintech, e-commerce, remote work, and online education.

The project is being implemented through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020–2025. It will involve partnerships with private sector players to accelerate deployment and ensure sustainability.

Key objectives of the fibre rollout

Achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025
Provide at least 25Mbps download speed nationwide
Connect all tertiary institutions and major healthcare facilities
Reduce internet costs through increased competition and infrastructure sharing
Support the growth of tech hubs in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt

Why is the fibre rollout starting in October?

The October launch date was chosen to align with the completion of preparatory phases, including regulatory approvals, contractor mobilisation, and site surveys. According to Dr. Tijani, the FG has finalised agreements with key stakeholders and secured funding to ensure uninterrupted implementation.

The timing also coincides with the peak of the dry season in most parts of Nigeria, which is ideal for civil works such as trenching and cable laying. This will minimise delays caused by weather-related disruptions.

Additionally, the FG is leveraging lessons from past broadband projects to avoid pitfalls such as incomplete rollouts or poor maintenance. The 90,000km fibre rollout is backed by a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress in real time.

How will the fibre rollout impact Nigerian businesses?

The fibre rollout is expected to have a transformative impact on Nigerian businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups. Faster internet speeds will enable seamless online transactions, cloud computing, and remote collaboration, reducing operational costs and increasing productivity.

Sectors such as fintech, agriculture, and manufacturing will benefit from improved digital infrastructure. For example, agribusinesses can use IoT devices and data analytics to optimise crop yields, while fintech companies can expand mobile money and digital banking services to unbanked populations.

Case study: Lagos tech ecosystem

Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, is home to over 300 tech startups and accelerators. The fibre rollout will provide these companies with the high-speed connectivity needed to compete globally. Already, Lagos accounts for 60% of Nigeria’s tech investments, and the fibre project is expected to attract more venture capital and talent to the city.

Startups like Flutterwave, Andela, and Paystack rely on stable internet to serve customers across Africa. With the new fibre network, they can reduce latency and improve user experience, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as Africa’s tech leader.

What are the benefits for rural communities?

One of the most significant advantages of the 90,000km fibre rollout is its focus on rural connectivity. Many rural areas in Nigeria currently depend on slow and unreliable internet, which hampers access to education, healthcare, and government services. The new fibre network will change this by providing affordable, high-speed internet to these underserved regions.

For instance, students in rural areas will be able to participate in online learning platforms like the FG’s School Digital Learning Programme. Farmers can access real-time market prices and weather forecasts via mobile apps. Healthcare workers can use telemedicine to consult specialists in urban centres.

Empowering women and youth

The FG has highlighted the role of the fibre rollout in empowering women and youth through digital inclusion. Women in rural areas, who often face barriers to economic participation, can leverage the internet to access e-commerce, online training, and remote work opportunities. Youth will benefit from digital skills programmes and job placements in the tech sector.

In states like Kano, Kaduna, and Enugu, women-led cooperatives are already using digital platforms to sell products online. The fibre project will enhance these efforts by providing the necessary infrastructure to scale their businesses.

How will the fibre rollout be funded?

The FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout is a public-private partnership (PPP) initiative, combining government funding with private sector investment. The total cost of the project is estimated at over ₦1.5 trillion, with funding sourced from the following channels:

Federal Government budgetary allocations
Multilateral development partners (e.g., World Bank, African Development Bank)
Private sector telecom operators (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile)
Infrastructure bonds and Sukuk funds
International investors and sovereign wealth funds

The FG has assured stakeholders that the project will be financially sustainable, with revenue generated from infrastructure sharing and commercial usage of the fibre network. This model has been successfully implemented in countries like South Africa and Kenya, where fibre rollouts have attracted significant private investment.

Cost recovery and affordability

To ensure affordability, the FG plans to regulate wholesale fibre prices and encourage competition among internet service providers (ISPs). This will prevent monopolistic practices and ensure that the benefits of the fibre rollout reach end-users at competitive rates.

The NCC has also announced incentives for ISPs that deploy infrastructure in rural areas, including tax breaks and expedited licensing. These measures aim to create a level playing field and promote inclusive growth.

Challenges facing the fibre rollout

While the FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout is a bold step forward, several challenges could impact its success. These include:

Right-of-way (RoW) issues: Securing permits and access to land for cable laying can be time-consuming and costly, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Vandalism and theft: Fibre cables are often targeted by thieves for resale, leading to service disruptions.
Power supply: Fibre networks require reliable electricity to operate, and many rural areas suffer from frequent power outages.
Skills gap: There is a shortage of local technicians trained in fibre optic installation and maintenance.
Regulatory hurdles: Delays in approvals and bureaucratic bottlenecks can slow down deployment.

To address these challenges, the FG is collaborating with state governments to streamline RoW processes and has launched training programmes for fibre technicians. Community engagement and public awareness campaigns are also being planned to reduce vandalism.

Comparison with other African countries

Nigeria’s 90,000km fibre rollout is one of the most ambitious in Africa, but it is not the first. Several countries have embarked on similar projects to improve broadband access. Here’s how Nigeria’s initiative compares:

South Africa

South Africa’s broadband policy aims to provide 100% population coverage by 2024, with a focus on fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) in urban areas. The government has invested in the SA Connect programme, which includes a 10,000km national backbone network. However, rural coverage remains a challenge due to terrain and funding constraints.

Nigeria’s fibre rollout differs by prioritising rural connectivity and leveraging PPP models to accelerate deployment. While South Africa’s project is more advanced in urban areas, Nigeria’s nationwide approach could bridge the urban-rural divide more effectively.

Kenya

Kenya’s National Broadband Strategy aims for 100% population coverage by 2025, with a target of 100Mbps for all citizens. The government has partnered with operators like Safaricom and Liquid Telecom to deploy fibre infrastructure. Kenya’s project is notable for its success in connecting schools and healthcare facilities.

Nigeria’s initiative mirrors Kenya’s focus on public institutions but goes further by including rural communities and SMEs. Both countries share a commitment to digital inclusion, but Nigeria’s scale (90,000km vs. Kenya’s 10,000km) makes it a regional leader.

Ghana

Ghana’s National Broadband Infrastructure Programme aims to achieve 100% coverage by 2025, with a focus on fibre and 4G expansion. The government has invested in the Eastern Corridor Fibre Project, which connects major cities. However, like Nigeria, Ghana faces challenges with RoW and funding.

Nigeria’s fibre rollout is more extensive and includes a stronger emphasis on rural connectivity. Ghana’s project is more advanced in terms of private sector participation, but Nigeria’s government-led approach ensures alignment with national development goals.

What’s next after the October launch?

The FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout will be implemented in phases over the next three years. The first phase, starting in October 2024, will cover 30,000km and focus on high-priority areas such as state capitals, federal universities, and major economic hubs. The remaining 60,000km will be deployed in subsequent phases, with completion targeted for 2027.

Key milestones in the coming months include:

October 2024: Launch of Phase 1 and contractor mobilisation
December 2024: Completion of site surveys and permits
March 2025: Commencement of cable laying in pilot states
June 2025: Activation of first batch of connected communities
December 2025: Review of Phase 1 progress and adjustments for Phase 2

The FG has assured Nigerians that regular updates will be provided through the Ministry of Communications and the NCC. Citizens can track the progress of the fibre rollout via dedicated portals and community engagement forums.

How can Nigerians prepare for the fibre rollout?

While the FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout will bring long-term benefits, Nigerians can take steps to prepare for the transition to high-speed internet:

Upgrade devices

Older devices such as smartphones, laptops, and routers may not support the speeds offered by fibre optic networks. Users should consider upgrading to devices with Gigabit Ethernet ports or Wi-Fi 6 capabilities to fully utilise the new infrastructure.

Check compatibility with ISPs

Not all internet service providers (ISPs) will immediately offer fibre plans. Nigerians should check with their current providers or explore new options that support fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) or fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) services. Major ISPs like MTN, Airtel, and Smile Communications are expected to launch fibre packages soon.

Digital skills training

The shift to fibre internet will enable more Nigerians to participate in the digital economy. Free digital skills programmes, such as the FG’s 3 Million Nigerians programme, can help individuals and businesses leverage the new infrastructure for growth. Topics include coding, digital marketing, and e-commerce.

FAQs about Nigeria’s fibre rollout

What is the timeline for the 90,000km fibre rollout?

The FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout will begin in October 2024, with Phase 1 covering 30,000km. The full project is expected to be completed by 2027, with regular progress updates provided by the Ministry of Communications.

Which states will benefit first from the fibre rollout?

Phase 1 of the fibre rollout will prioritise state capitals, federal universities, and major economic hubs. This includes Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Enugu. Rural areas will be covered in subsequent phases.

How will the fibre rollout affect internet costs in Nigeria?

The FG aims to reduce internet costs by increasing competition and infrastructure sharing. Regulated wholesale prices and incentives for ISPs in rural areas will help make high-speed internet more affordable for Nigerians.

What role will private companies play in the fibre rollout?

Private companies, including telecom operators like MTN, Airtel, and Glo, will partner with the FG to deploy and maintain the fibre network. They will also provide retail internet services to consumers, ensuring widespread access to the new infrastructure.

How can rural communities get connected to the fibre network?

Rural communities will be connected through targeted deployment in Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the project. The FG is working with state governments and local stakeholders to identify priority areas and ensure community buy-in for the fibre rollout.

Will the fibre rollout support 5G expansion in Nigeria?

Yes, the 90,000km fibre rollout will provide the backbone infrastructure needed for 5G expansion. Fibre optic cables are essential for transmitting the high-speed data required by 5G networks, which will further enhance Nigeria’s digital economy.

How can I check if my area is covered by the fibre rollout?

The NCC and the Ministry of Communications will publish maps and updates on the coverage areas. Nigerians can visit the official broadband portal or contact their local NCC office for more information on the fibre rollout progress in their area.

Conclusion: A new era for Nigeria’s digital economy

The FG’s 90,000km fibre rollout marks a turning point for Nigeria’s digital economy. By providing high-speed internet to every corner of the country, the project will unlock new opportunities for businesses, education, healthcare, and governance. It will also position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation, attracting investment and talent from across the continent.

As the October launch approaches, Nigerians should prepare for the transition by upgrading their devices, exploring fibre-compatible ISPs, and participating in digital skills programmes. The fibre rollout is not just about faster internet—it’s about building a more inclusive, competitive, and future-ready Nigeria.

For updates on the project, follow the Ministry of Communications and the NCC on their official channels. The future of Nigeria’s digital economy starts now.

ByEditorial Team