The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has attributed the recent 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs to inflation and escalating operational costs.
Speaking during his appearance before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Communication to defend the 2025 budget of his ministry, Tijani explained that the adjustment aligns with broader economic trends.
Tijani also unveiled the Federal Government’s plan to invest ₦6 billion in deploying 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable to boost the nation’s digital infrastructure. This project will expand Nigeria’s current capacity from 35,000 kilometers to 125,000 kilometers, addressing critical gaps in connectivity and positioning the country as a regional leader in digital services.
“Outside of South Africa, Egypt, and perhaps Tunisia, many African countries face a significant cable deficit,” Tijani said. “This presents a massive business opportunity. We want Nigerian companies to not only meet local demands but also offer these services to neighboring countries.”
The minister highlighted the potential for Nigerian firms to play a leading role in Africa’s digital economy, noting that the fiber optic expansion would create jobs and enhance the nation’s global competitiveness.
“Our goal is to empower Nigerian companies to expand beyond our borders while providing employment opportunities for our people,” he stated. “We’ve seen South African firms thrive in global markets. We aim to replicate and exceed that success by positioning Nigeria as a hub for digital innovation and infrastructure development.”
While defending the budget, Tijani emphasized the importance of a robust digital infrastructure to secure economic growth and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global landscape. He underscored that the fiber optic deployment project would enhance internet accessibility, improve service delivery, and bolster Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Minister concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing the economic challenges that impact telecom services, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions to stabilize the sector and deliver sustainable benefits to Nigerians.
