The Federal Government is seeking about $1.2 billion in private-sector capital to support the planned deployment of a 90,000-kilometre nationwide fibre-optic network, as the project moves towards physical deployment in October 2026.
Known as Project BRIDGE, the initiative is designed to expand Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and provide a stronger national broadband backbone. The project is being implemented through a public-private partnership involving the Federal Government and private investors.
The total estimated cost of the project is $2 billion. According to government records, about $800 million has already been secured through financing commitments from development institutions.
The secured financing includes a $500 million World Bank facility, a $200 million African Development Bank loan, and a $100 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The European Union has also provided a €22 million grant to support the project.
The remaining $1.2 billion is expected to come largely from private-sector participation. The government had earlier invited domestic and international investors to participate in the project through its proposed special-purpose vehicle.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy said the government would hold a minority stake in the project company, while private-sector investors would hold the majority. Under the proposed structure, government ownership would range between 25 and 49 per cent, while private investors would hold at least 51 per cent.
The government has also established Bridge Open Access, the company expected to serve as the vehicle for implementing the fibre project. Physical deployment is expected to begin in October.
The project is intended to extend fibre connectivity across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the network designed to reach more than 770 local government areas.
The Federal Government says Project BRIDGE will support broadband expansion and improve access to digital services. Better fibre infrastructure is also expected to benefit telecommunications companies, internet service providers, businesses, schools and healthcare institutions.
The ministry has said the project could help address connectivity gaps, particularly in underserved areas where reliable broadband infrastructure remains limited. It also expects stronger connectivity to support digital businesses, job creation and wider participation in the digital economy.
The project has already attracted interest from private-sector companies. Government documents indicate that 30 companies formally registered interest following consultations with potential investors.
With the government financing commitments already secured and private-sector mobilisation ongoing, attention is now turning to the completion of the investment structure and the planned October rollout.
