The Federal Government unveiled the National Broadband Alliance (NBAN) on February 4, 2025, to improve digital infrastructure. The initiative aims to enhance broadband access and promote innovation, driving nationwide connectivity. Minister Bosun Tijani emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding internet services across Nigeria.
A Strategic Push for Broadband Expansion
The NBAN is designed to increase broadband penetration significantly. Minister Tijani highlighted the remarkable progress from just 6% broadband penetration in 2015 to about 42% by October 2024. The new initiative aims to continue this upward trajectory by connecting underserved and rural communities, ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet. The government plans to deploy 90,000 km of fiber backbone across the country, helping bridge the digital divide.
Part of the Renewed Hope Agenda
The National Broadband Alliance aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes innovation, technology, and collaboration for national prosperity. Tijani emphasized that the broadband expansion would help empower Nigerians, especially in rural areas. “While the progress made is commendable, much more remains to be done,” he said, underlining the ongoing need for reliable internet access.
Strategic Partnerships and Funding Challenges
Tijani pointed out that the expansion of broadband services would require more than government efforts alone. He stressed the importance of forging strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other stakeholders to overcome infrastructure challenges. These partnerships will be vital in making broadband affordable and accessible to all Nigerians, particularly in less urbanized regions.
Setting Ambitious Goals for the Future
As part of the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025), Nigeria aims to reach 70% broadband penetration by 2025. The government also plans to ensure that urban areas experience a minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps and extend broadband access to 80% of the population by 2027. Achieving these ambitious targets will require sustained efforts, Tijani noted, calling for collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Towards a Digitally Empowered Nigeria
The launch of the NBAN represents a significant step in Nigeria’s journey toward digital empowerment. With the government’s clear focus on broadband infrastructure, the National Broadband Alliance is poised to boost Nigeria’s digital economy, improve educational and business opportunities, and contribute to overall national development. As the initiative progresses, it will provide Nigerians with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
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