The government of Nigeria plans to invest $732 million (N265 billion approx.) on broadband infrastructure. The sum will be dispersed over the next four years for nationwide coverage.
The Nigerian government wants to increase connectivity in other to boost and diversify the economy. The Nigeria Communications Commission report for May 2019 stated that there were 122 million internet users in the country. Despite the steady increase, overall internet penetration in the country remains low.
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Given a 200 million total population, Nigeria has only 50% of its population connected to the internet compared to the global average of 57%. This is the reason why the government wants to make the internet more accessible in the country.
An initial N65 billion will be provided by the government for the project. Umar Danbatta, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission said that six private infrastructure companies will receive the balance under a public-private partnership.
The government seeks to roll out an additional 30000 kilometres broadband infrastructure. The fibre will go across 774 local governments, making a total of 71000 kilometres by 2024.
At the end of the four years, the broadband penetration rate will rise from 38% to 65%. The project will be commissioned as soon as the government grants approval.
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