ABUJA, July 24, 2025 – The World Bank has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s ambitious plan to deploy a 90,000-kilometre national fibre-optic broadband infrastructure, aimed at boosting digital connectivity and economic transformation across the country.
The endorsement came from Anshula Kant, the Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of the World Bank Group, during a high-level engagement with Nigerian officials in Abuja on Wednesday.
Kant commended the Nigerian government for taking bold steps toward expanding its digital economy, stating that the initiative aligns with the World Bank’s commitment to supporting inclusive and sustainable development through technology infrastructure.
She described the 90,000km national fibre-optic backbone plan as one of the most extensive connectivity projects globally, noting its potential to accelerate digital access, reduce the rural-urban connectivity gap, and spur innovation across sectors such as education, healthcare, and finance.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who led the Nigerian delegation at the meeting, expressed optimism that the collaboration would not only strengthen Nigeria’s digital capabilities but also enhance job creation and global competitiveness.
According to the minister, the backbone project will serve as a foundation for Nigeria’s broader digital transformation goals, including the rollout of smart infrastructure, data centres, and improved internet access in underserved communities.
The World Bank is expected to provide technical and financial support for the project, as part of its ongoing partnership with Nigeria to foster digital inclusion and economic growth.
