Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, on Wednesday announced fresh international funding commitments for Project BRIDGE, confirming new investments from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union
Nigeria has achieved a landmark milestone in its digital transformation journey, securing major investments from European partners to accelerate Project BRIDGE, the nation’s ambitious fibre-optic rollout initiative. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has formally approved a $100 million investment, which adds to the $500 million financing already secured from the World Bank. This substantial backing underscores strong international confidence in Nigeria’s efforts to expand high-speed connectivity nationwide.
In parallel, the European Union has signed a €45 million Digital Economy Package for Nigeria, with €22 million earmarked as a grant for Project BRIDGE. The remainder of the package includes €18 million to strengthen digital public services and €5 million to support the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, a key initiative for developing local technological expertise. These commitments reflect Nigeria’s growing appeal as a strategic partner in the global digital economy and the country’s dedication to creating an inclusive and innovation-driven digital ecosystem.
Project BRIDGE, unveiled in August 2025, is designed to expand Nigeria’s fibre-optic backbone from 35,000 kilometres to 125,000 kilometres, delivering high-speed internet to all 774 local government areas, particularly underserved and unserved communities. The initiative aims to accelerate affordable and reliable broadband connectivity, enhance digital public services, enable remote work capabilities, and lay the foundation for AI-ready infrastructure. By connecting more citizens and businesses to the digital economy, Project BRIDGE is expected to drive innovation, economic growth, and digital inclusion across the country.
The World Bank financing for the project is structured under a pay-for-results model, ensuring that funds are released only as specific milestones are achieved. The initial tranche of six million dollars is expected in 2026 to establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that will oversee the implementation of Project BRIDGE. Further disbursements will follow the completion of the first 5,000 kilometres of fibre and will continue to be tied to reaching larger deployment benchmarks. This model ensures accountability, technical compliance, and performance-driven execution throughout the life of the project.
Preparatory work is already underway, with the Ministry awarding a ₦451.9 million supply-chain advisory contract to a consortium led by Bluechip Technologies Limited, a Nigerian information technology and consulting firm. The contract covers the design of the first 40,000 kilometres of fibre routes, setting the stage for a rapid nationwide rollout. Minister Bosun Tijani described the approvals as deeply reassuring, highlighting the effort and air miles undertaken during a two-week investment tour across six European countries. He emphasized that the partnerships secured will allow for the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre across Nigeria, delivering meaningful connectivity to all citizens.
With these significant investments, Project BRIDGE is poised to transform Nigeria’s digital landscape. The initiative is expected to extend high-speed broadband access to previously underserved regions, enhance the delivery of digital public services, support AI-readiness and remote work infrastructure, and strengthen investor confidence in Nigeria’s digital sector. The combined support of the EBRD, the World Bank, and the European Union demonstrates the strategic importance and commercial viability of this national fibre-optic expansion. Project BRIDGE represents a critical step toward a digitally inclusive and technologically empowered Nigeria, creating opportunities for citizens, businesses, and the next generation of technological talent.
