The African Development Bank has approved a $200 million loan to support Nigeria’s plan to expand its fibre optic infrastructure and strengthen digital skills and capacity across the country.
The funding will drive a major nationwide project aimed at deploying about 90,000 kilometres of fibre cables. Expanding Nigeria’s backbone network from roughly 30,000 km to 120,000 km.
The initiative, known as Project BRIDGE (or D-VIBE), is part of a broader $800 million financing package involving global partners. Including the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Officials say the project will connect all 774 local government areas. Including schools, hospitals, rural communities, and commercial hubs, to high-speed broadband. It is also expected to improve internet access, reduce connectivity gaps, and support cross-border digital links with neighbouring countries.
Digital Skills, Jobs, and Economic Growth in Focus
Beyond infrastructure, the project places strong emphasis on digital skills development, aiming to equip millions of Nigerians with capabilities needed in a technology-driven economy.
The programme will include large-scale training in digital literacy, software development, and emerging technologies, targeting youths, entrepreneurs, and public sector workers.
According to the AfDB, the initiative could create up to 2.8 million jobs over time. While increasing broadband penetration from about q45% to nearly 70% by 2030.
Experts say the investment comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil and position itself as a leading digital hub in Africa. Improved connectivity is also expected to boost key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and financial services.
While challenges like infrastructure costs and right-of-way issues remain. The project signals a major step toward bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and unlocking new opportunities in the digital economy.
