U.S. and Nigeria Partner on $2 Million Grant to Expand Fiber Optic Infrastructure by 90,000 km
The United States and Nigeria have signed a $2,095,000 grant to explore the feasibility of deploying 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic infrastructure across Nigeria.
The announcement came during the inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue held on January 10, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This landmark event was led by Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell and featured a senior Nigerian delegation headed by Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Key Objectives of the Grant
The grant, funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), supports Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020–2025. Its primary goals include:
- Increasing broadband penetration from 42.27% to 70%.
- Ensuring 90% of Nigerians have access to affordable and reliable broadband.
Deputy Secretary Campbell emphasized the transformative potential of this project, highlighting its role in improving digital infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and supporting Nigeria’s broader goals of developing digital skills and cultivating local talent.
Focus Areas of the Dialogue
During the dialogue, U.S. and Nigerian officials addressed critical issues to enhance their respective digital economies. Key areas of discussion included:
- Enhancing the security and resilience of essential services and facilities.
- Promoting digital trade, e-commerce, and innovation-driven economic growth.
- Building a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the digital age.
- Strengthening AI partnerships, particularly in capacity building and governance frameworks.
- Ensuring information integrity within the digital ecosystem.
Public-Private Collaboration Highlights
The dialogue concluded with a roundtable hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, featuring over 25 companies from both nations. Representatives from sectors like AI, telecommunications, digital infrastructure, fintech, and cybersecurity identified opportunities for public-private collaboration.
Key discussion points included:
- Developing innovative solutions through U.S.-Nigeria commercial partnerships.
- Advancing critical infrastructure to support emerging technologies like AI.
- Addressing global health and food security challenges via AI-enabled biotechnology.
Future Plans
Both governments agreed to continue their collaboration through a virtual expert exchange focusing on the role of AI in biotechnology. This initiative aims to leverage AI to address pressing issues in global health and food security, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Meta Description: The U.S. and Nigeria signed a $2M grant to expand 90,000 km of fiber optic infrastructure, aiming to boost broadband access and foster digital transformation.
