The Federal Government has announced plans to collaborate with the private sector to roll out 7,000 telecommunications towers starting next year. This initiative aims to expand network coverage and enhance digital connectivity across Nigeria.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, shared this development during a stakeholder engagement session organized by the Universal Service Provision Fund in Lagos. He highlighted that the project is expected to provide telecom access to approximately 25 to 30 million Nigerians in underserved areas.
Telecom towers, which support antennas and equipment for wireless signal transmission, are critical for mobile network coverage and internet connectivity. Under this investment model, the government will hold a 49% stake, while private sector investors will contribute 51%, ensuring efficient management by private companies. The Federal Executive Council approved the project on February 27 as part of a broader strategy to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity in rural regions.
Dr. Tijani, who is also leading a 90,000km fiber-optic project in partnership with the World Bank, emphasized the importance of connectivity in modern society. He stated, “If private capital cannot reach these areas, the government must step in to ensure access for our people.”
The initiative is part of a larger digital infrastructure strategy, which includes a $2 billion investment in fiber-optic cables to boost broadband penetration. A study will be conducted to assess existing telecom infrastructure and identify optimal locations for tower deployment. The goal is to ensure that every part of the country has access to high-speed connectivity.
To address concerns about vandalism, Dr. Tijani noted that telecommunications infrastructure has been classified as critical national infrastructure by President Bola Tinubu since 2023. This designation brings stricter penalties for those who damage these assets, alongside enhanced security measures to protect the new towers.
The government aims to begin groundwork by the end of this year, with nationwide deployment of the towers set to commence early next year.
