The Nigerian Government has announced plans to co-invest with the private sector in the deployment of 7,000 telecommunications towers starting next year, in a significant push to expand network coverage and improve digital connectivity across Nigeria.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, made the announcement on Thursday during a stakeholder engagement session in Lagos organized by the Universal Service Provision Fund. Tijani explained that telecom towers, which support antennas and equipment for transmitting and receiving wireless signals, are crucial for enhancing mobile network coverage and internet access.
The initiative is part of the government’s ongoing effort to bridge the digital divide, particularly in underserved areas. Tijani revealed that the project aims to provide telecom access to between 25 to 30 million Nigerians living in areas with limited or no existing infrastructure.
Under the investment model, the government will hold a 49% stake, with the remaining 51% provided by private sector investors, ensuring private sector management efficiency. Private companies will manage the towers while the government plays a co-investment role, ensuring telecom services reach underserved regions.
The project, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council on February 27, is aligned with the government’s broader strategy to improve connectivity in rural and underserved areas. Tijani emphasized that the initiative was vital, stating, “In today’s world, anyone without connectivity is effectively cut off from opportunities and modern realities.”
He further explained that the goal is to begin construction by the end of this year, with nationwide deployment of the towers expected to start early next year. The project will work in tandem with Nigeria’s national broadband plan, which includes a $2 billion investment in 90,000 km of fiber-optic cables to enhance broadband penetration.
Tijani added that a study would be conducted to assess the current telecom infrastructure and identify the best locations for tower deployment, aiming to ensure that every part of the country is within close proximity to high-speed connectivity.
Addressing concerns about vandalism and the safety of telecom assets, Tijani highlighted that telecommunications infrastructure was classified as critical national infrastructure by President Bola Tinubu in 2023. He emphasized that those who vandalize these assets will face severe consequences, with enhanced security measures to protect the new towers.
This initiative represents a key step in Nigeria’s drive to improve digital connectivity and ensure equitable access to modern communication technologies for all citizens.
