The U.S. and Nigerian governments have signed a $2,095,000 grant to explore the possibility of deploying at least 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic infrastructure across Nigeria. The announcement took place during the U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue in Washington, D.C., on January 10, 2025.
Grant Details and Strategic Goals
The grant is funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and aligns with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020-2025. The primary goal is to increase broadband penetration in Nigeria from 42.27% to 70%, with the long-term aim of ensuring that 90% of the population has access to affordable and reliable broadband services.
This partnership is set to have a transformative impact on Nigeria’s digital economy, boosting connectivity and facilitating economic growth. It is also aligned with Nigeria’s broader objectives of developing digital skills and cultivating local talent.
Strengthening U.S.-Nigeria Digital Partnership
Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell, who led the U.S. delegation at the dialogue, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership. He noted that expanding fiber optic infrastructure in Nigeria would greatly enhance the country’s digital connectivity, which is crucial for its economic growth and long-term development.
During the dialogue, the two nations explored key topics surrounding the future of digital transformation. These included improving the resilience and security of essential digital services, advancing digital trade, and fostering innovation-driven economic growth.
Areas of Focus: AI and Infrastructure Development
In addition to fiber optic infrastructure, the dialogue also focused on expanding the artificial intelligence (AI) partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria. This includes building capacity, ensuring robust governance frameworks, and promoting information integrity within the digital ecosystem.
The discussions also highlighted the vital role that critical infrastructure plays in advancing AI. Experts examined how the right infrastructure and governance frameworks can accelerate the deployment of emerging technologies, driving inclusive growth for both nations.
U.S.-Nigeria Collaboration for Digital Talent Development
The collaboration also underscored the importance of building a skilled workforce capable of navigating the digital age. The roundtable discussions, hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, brought together over 25 companies from sectors such as AI, telecommunications, digital infrastructure, fintech, and cybersecurity. The focus was on fostering public-private sector partnerships to innovate and develop digital talent.
The Future of AI-Enabled Biotechnology
A significant outcome of the dialogue was an agreement to hold a virtual expert exchange on AI-enabled biotechnology. This collaboration will explore how AI and biotechnology can address global challenges such as healthcare and food security, with a particular focus on sub-Saharan Africa.
The U.S.-Nigeria fiber optic grant represents a major step forward in bridging the digital divide in Nigeria. This project will not only enhance broadband connectivity across the country but also support Nigeria’s broader goals of digital skills development and economic growth. As both nations deepen their collaboration, the partnership is set to foster innovation and drive significant progress in digital infrastructure.