The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy has launched a formal invitation for private sector stakeholders to engage in an investor consultation for Project BRIDGE (Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth), a groundbreaking initiative designed to bolster Nigeria’s broadband infrastructure.
The project aims to deploy an extensive 90,000 km of fiber optic cables to establish a robust digital backbone for the nation, facilitating universal access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) across the country, and will cost about $2 billion, according to Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, which announced the opening of consultations emphasises the strategic importance of the project in driving digital transformation, enhancing connectivity, and supporting economic growth across Nigeria.
According to the Ministry, Project BRIDGE will be structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), with the Nigerian government holding a minority stake of at least 25% but not exceeding 49%. The Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) established for the project will be independently managed by a professional board with expertise in telecommunications, finance, and infrastructure management.
What is Project BRIDGE?
Project BRIDGE, the Ministry states, is a government initiative aimed at deploying an extensive fiber optic network to strengthen Nigeria’s ICT infrastructure. The 90,000 km of fiber cables will serve as the nation’s core connectivity infrastructure, expanding broadband access to both urban and rural areas, and positioning Nigeria as a digital economy leader in Africa.
According to the Ministry, Project BRIDGE will be structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), with the Nigerian government holding a minority stake of at least 25% but not exceeding 49%. The Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) established for the project will be independently managed by a professional board with expertise in telecommunications, finance, and infrastructure management.
“This is an open call to private sector participants who meet the set criteria and wish to contribute to Nigeria’s digital future. The initiative represents an opportunity for strategic investors to not only develop and finance the country’s broadband infrastructure but also to play a key role in the country’s digital economy,” Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry says.
The Ministry underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the project’s execution. Interested investors are invited to complete a consultation form available on the Ministry’s official website. While completing the form does not guarantee participation in the procurement process, the Ministry says it is an essential part of the consultation phase to gather critical insights and ensure all relevant stakeholders are involved.
Under the rules, the consultation is open to legally registered entities with a proven track record in broadband or telecommunications, or those with experience managing large-scale infrastructure projects. Applicants must demonstrate substantial financial capacity, a commitment to national digital economy goals, and compliance with international governance standards.
Following this consultation, the Ministry plans to review the responses and engage in further stakeholder discussions. The competitive bidding process will eventually commence with a formal Request for Expression of Interest (EOI) in alignment with Nigerian procurement laws. Additional stakeholder engagements will be conducted as the project progresses.
“This is a historic moment for Nigeria’s digital transformation, and we look forward to the active participation of all stakeholders,” Isime Esene from the Office of the Minister says.
US backs Project BRIDGE
In January 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, led a delegation to Washington, D.C., for the Nigeria-U.S. Technology Dialogue. This initiative aims to bolster cooperation between the two nations in critical technology sectors, fostering interagency collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
Background of the Nigeria-U.S. Technology Dialogue
The Technology Dialogue builds upon prior engagements, including U.S. Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell’s visit to Abuja for the 6th U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission (BNC) in April 2024, the ‘Global Inclusivity and Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ event in Lagos funded by both governments, and the AI event hosted by the U.S. Department of State during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2024. These events have laid the groundwork for enhanced bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure and workforce talent development.
$2 Million Broadband Feasibility Study Grant
A significant outcome of the Dialogue was the signing of a $2,095,000 grant agreement between the United States and Nigeria. Funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), this grant will fund a feasibility study to assess the deployment of at least 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic backbone infrastructure across Nigeria. This initiative supports Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, which aims to increase broadband penetration from 42.27% to 70% and ensure that 90% of the population has access to affordable and reliable broadband services.
Objectives and Discussions
The Technology Dialogue focused on several key objectives:
- Enhancing Resilience and Security: Strengthening the security of essential services and facilities to ensure robust digital infrastructure.
- Promoting Digital Trade and Innovation: Encouraging digital trade and e-commerce to drive innovation-led economic growth.
- Developing a Skilled Workforce: Cultivating a workforce adept at meeting the demands of the digital era.
- Expanding AI Partnerships: Collaborating on artificial intelligence initiatives related to capacity building, infrastructure development, and governance frameworks that respect rights.
- Promoting Information Integrity: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of information in the digital space.
Implications for Nigeria’s Digital Economy
The $2 million feasibility study grant, the Ministry says, marks a pivotal step in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its digital infrastructure. By potentially deploying 90,000 km of fiber optic cables, the initiative aims to bridge connectivity gaps, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Improved broadband access is expected to stimulate economic growth, facilitate digital inclusion, and support various sectors, including education, healthcare, and commerce.
Engagement with industry
Following the formal discussions, the delegations participated in a roundtable hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This session included representatives from over 25 U.S. and Nigerian companies across various technology sectors, such as AI, telecommunications, digital infrastructure, satellites, aerospace, fintech, and cybersecurity. Panel discussions covered topics like advancing public-private sector investment in innovation and digital talent development, as well as the role of critical infrastructure in supporting AI advancements.
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