The Federal Government has unlocked a $200 million loan from the African Development Bank to drive a major expansion of Nigeria’s fibre optic backbone, advancing plans to strengthen broadband access and power the country’s digital economy.

The funding forms part of the wider $800 million Project BRIDGE financing package, which also includes $500 million from the World Bank and $100 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The initiative will expand Nigeria’s fibre network from 30,000 kilometres to 120,000 kilometres, connecting all 774 local government areas to high-speed internet infrastructure.

With the total project valued at $2 billion, additional backing will come from EU grants, development finance support, and over $1.2 billion in expected private sector investment. AfDB says the project is designed to close Nigeria’s infrastructure gap, stimulate economic activity, and open more opportunities for young people in the digital space.

Officials project the rollout could create up to 2.8 million jobs while raising broadband penetration from about 45 percent to 70 percent by 2030. The network will also extend cross-border fibre links to neighbouring countries including Benin, Cameroon, Niger, and Chad, strengthening regional connectivity.

Beyond infrastructure, Project BRIDGE includes investments in digital skills, affordable access devices, cybersecurity systems, and renewable-powered network resilience, positioning Nigeria for broader digital inclusion and long-term technology growth.