Nigeria’s ambitious plan to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network is set to reshape the country’s digital infrastructure, but one aspect of the project has attracted significant attention—the company that will build and manage the network has not yet been established.
The Federal Government has proposed the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee the nationwide fibre backbone project. Rather than assigning the project to an existing telecommunications operator, the new entity will be specifically created to coordinate funding, construction, ownership, and long-term management of the network. The initiative is expected to bring together government agencies, private investors, development finance institutions, and industry stakeholders under a single framework.
The 90,000km fibre project is designed to significantly expand broadband coverage across the country, particularly in underserved and rural communities. By increasing fibre infrastructure, the government aims to lower the cost of internet access, improve service quality, and support Nigeria’s growing digital economy. The network is also expected to strengthen connectivity for schools, hospitals, businesses, financial institutions, and government services.
Industry experts say establishing a dedicated company could provide a neutral platform that allows all licensed telecom operators and internet service providers to access the infrastructure on equal terms. This open-access model has been adopted in several countries to encourage competition while reducing the duplication of network investments.
However, questions remain about how quickly the new company can be incorporated, secure financing, and begin construction. Stakeholders are also watching closely to see how governance, regulation, and private-sector participation will be structured to ensure transparency and long-term sustainability.
If successfully implemented, the 90,000km fibre network could become one of Nigeria’s largest digital infrastructure projects, accelerating broadband penetration and supporting innovation across multiple sectors. While the company responsible for delivering the project is yet to come into existence, expectations are high that its creation will mark the beginning of a transformative chapter in Nigeria’s digital development, helping bridge the connectivity gap and positioning the country for greater participation in the global digital economy.
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