Nigeria is embarking on a new digital era with the unveiling of Project Bridge, a monumental initiative aimed at transforming the nation’s connectivity. Described by Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, as “the most ambitious digital infrastructure project in the country’s history,” this project is a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The core objective of Project Bridge is to create a robust, high-speed, and equitable broadband network, bringing the power of the internet to every corner of the country. This isn’t just about faster speeds; it’s about building an inclusive digital economy that benefits all Nigerians.
125,000KM of Fibre to Connect Nigeria
At the heart of the plan is the construction of a 90,000-kilometre wholesale, open-access fibre network. Combined with Nigeria’s existing 35,000km of fibre, this will create a massive 125,000km national digital backbone. This extensive network will serve as a digital superhighway, closing the connectivity gap and fostering competition among internet service providers.
The technical design for Project Bridge is a masterclass in redundancy and reach. It features seven regional backbone rings that will connect Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring minimal service interruptions and seamless data flow. From there, the network will extend to 37 metropolitan areas and every one of the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs), creating a resilient framework for economic growth, education, and innovation.
Bringing Broadband to Local Communities
A crucial part of Project Bridge is its focus on local access. Each LGA will have a Point of Presence (PoP), a central distribution hub that will extend fibre to administrative wards, specifically targeting schools and healthcare facilities. This strategic approach ensures that even the most underserved rural communities will benefit from the digital revolution. These local hubs will facilitate the final phase of the project: connecting homes and businesses and making broadband a reality for millions.
Dr. Tijani is calling on all stakeholders—from tech companies to local communities—to contribute feedback to ensure the project’s success. “This marks a major step forward in our mission to build a truly inclusive and future-ready digital economy for all Nigerians,” he stated. Project Bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it’s a collective effort to build a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Nigeria.
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