EU Commits €14m to Boost Nigeria's Broadband Infrastructure

The European Union has committed €14m in grant funding to assist Nigeria in deploying 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic infrastructure aimed at expanding broadband access nationwide. The agreement was signed in Abuja by representatives from the Federal Government, the European Union, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

The grant will cover network design, project preparation, technical studies, and capacity building, as the Federal Government aims to improve internet connectivity and bolster the digital economy. Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, stated that the partnership would enhance Nigeria's digital infrastructure and economic development.

The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning will coordinate the project, while the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy will supervise its technical implementation. Deborah Odoh, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, described the agreement as a significant milestone for Nigeria's digital infrastructure.

Massimo De Luca, the EU representative in Nigeria, reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Nigeria's digital initiatives.