The Federal Government has launched the National Broadband Alliance (NBAN)—an ambitious initiative aimed at expanding broadband access, transforming digital infrastructure, and boosting economic opportunities across the country.
The initiative was unveiled on Tuesday in Lagos by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who was represented by Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Speaking at the launch, Tijani highlighted the progress made in broadband penetration, which has skyrocketed from a mere 6% in 2015 to 42% as of October 2024. However, he acknowledged that this growth is still insufficient, especially in rural and underserved areas.
To tackle this challenge, the government is deploying a 90,000-kilometer fibre-optic backbone, leveraging a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to extend high-speed internet connectivity to remote communities.
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Tijani emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships as critical drivers of economic transformation.
The National Broadband Alliance aims to:
- Increase broadband penetration to 70% by 2025.
- Ensure a minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps in urban areas.
- Provide broadband access to 80% of the population by 2027.
“This initiative isn’t just about expanding internet access,” Tijani stated. “It’s about empowering Nigerians—especially those in underserved communities—by opening up new opportunities in education, business, healthcare, and innovation.”
Recognizing the scale of the challenge, Tijani stressed that the government cannot achieve these goals alone. The success of NBAN, he noted, hinges on collaboration with private sector players, investors, donors, and other key stakeholders to accelerate infrastructure development and drive down broadband costs.
“These targets reflect our commitment to ensuring that broadband is accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all Nigerians,” he said. “But we also know that real change requires collective effort.”
