The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of Nigeria has announced the launch of its first fibre-to-home internet connectivity project, developed in partnership with the West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC).
This significant initiative was unveiled following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday in Abuja, as disclosed by Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani.
The project, which carries an investment of $10 million, aims to enhance the nation’s digital infrastructure and provide Nigerians with improved access to fast and affordable internet services.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the importance of digital technology in boosting productivity across various sectors, stating, “Our intention is not really to have a situation where the cost of providing these services will continue to go up.”
He acknowledged the ongoing investments by telecommunications service providers while stressing the need for sustainable business practices that do not burden consumers.
“That balance is what we have been able to figure. But we also recognise that if our goal is meaningful connectivity, there is more than one way to meaningful connectivity,” he added.
The Minister highlighted the need for investment in various aspects of the connectivity value chain, noting that Nigerians have not fully benefited from fibre-to-home solutions.
“We mostly rely on connectivity on our mobile, on the go. But there is immense opportunity to also stay connected while you are home,” he observed.
Regarding the MoU with WIOCC, Dr. Tijani expressed the government’s commitment to collaborating with companies to ensure comprehensive service delivery across the nation.
He stated, “It is going to put Nigeria in a position where the people have access to world-class and high-speed broadband internet in the major cities, and also in the rural and unconnected locations.”
Additionally, he mentioned the government’s aim to support small businesses in accessing essential services throughout the country.
On the recent approval for a tariff hike for telecommunications services, the Minister acknowledged the challenges associated with this decision. He noted the government’s understanding of the critical role connectivity plays in societal development and the broader economy.
“We appreciate that our goal of building a one trillion-dollar economy will need to ensure that connectivity is at the heart of that. Productivity is key to being able to build an economy that is strong,” he remarked.
Darren Bedford, Group Chief Business Development Officer of WIOCC, shared insights into the project’s ambitions, stating that the initial phase targets three million homes. He reiterated the significance of the initiative, highlighting that many Nigerians currently lack access to reliable high-speed broadband.
“This is the first step to creating this environment and to bring this to the Nigerian people,” he said.
Bedford also mentioned that the project would undergo reevaluation throughout its rollout to ensure its targets remain realistic and achievable.
