The European Union has pledged up to €14 million in grant funding to support preparations for Nigeria’s proposed 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network aimed at expanding broadband access nationwide.
The grant will fund network design, technical studies, project preparation and capacity building, but will not cover the actual construction of the entire network.
The agreement was signed in Abuja by representatives of the Federal Government, the European Union and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which will administer the grant.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, said the partnership would strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, stimulate economic growth and promote knowledge transfer.
He added that the initiative would build local expertise and strengthen the institutions responsible for implementing the project.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning will coordinate and oversee the project, while the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy will handle technical supervision.
The proposed network is expected to improve internet connectivity, support businesses and expand access to digital services, particularly in underserved communities.
The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation through strategic investments and cooperation with government institutions.
