U.S. Agency Funds 1,500 Base Stations in Nigeria

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has announced funding to support a feasibility study for the deployment of 1,500 mobile communication base stations across Nigeria, Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana.

This initiative, detailed in a statement received on Thursday, aims to accelerate the rollout of American-made wireless infrastructure to connect off-grid communities in West Africa, which currently rely on outdated 2G and 3G networks. The project will be implemented by Massachusetts-based Vanu Inc. and its subsidiary, Vanu Côte d'Ivoire.

USTDA Deputy Director Thomas R. Hardy stated that the agency seeks to expand affordable and secure internet access across underserved communities in West Africa.

The feasibility study will evaluate existing network infrastructure, market conditions, and legal frameworks while developing a financial plan for the project's implementation. Andrew Beard, CEO of Vanu Inc., expressed pride in partnering with USTDA to help mobile network operators expand broadband access in economically challenged areas.