The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $200 million loan to support Nigeria’s plans to expand its fibre optic infrastructure and improve digital skills development.
- +AfDB backs Nigeria’s fibre expansion, digital skills drive with $200m loan
This move is aimed at strengthening the country’s position in the global digital economy.
This move is aimed at strengthening the country’s position in the global digital economy. The funding, announced this week, will back a comprehensive programme designed to improve broadband connectivity across underserved and rural communities while equipping millions of Nigerians with the skills needed to participate in an increasingly technology-driven world.
According to the bank, the project aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda and is expected to significantly reduce the country’s connectivity gap, which continues to limit access to education, financial services, and economic opportunities in many parts of the country.
The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the federal government of Nigeria, with a dual focus on infrastructure and human capital development.
The project will finance the rollout of thousands of kilometres of fibre optic cables, which will improve internet speed, reliability, and affordability.
A large-scale digital skills programme will be launched to train young people, entrepreneurs, and public sector workers in areas such as basic digital literacy, software development, and emerging technologies.
The goal is to create a workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem and attracting further investment.
The intervention comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to leverage its large population and vibrant startup scene to become a leading digital hub in Africa.
However, persistent infrastructure deficits and a widening skills gap have remained key barriers to growth.
Improved connectivity is also likely to benefit sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and financial services, particularly in remote areas.
The AfDB noted that the project supports its broader mission of fostering sustainable development and economic integration across the continent, while also contributing to Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil.
If successfully implemented, the initiative could mark a significant step forward in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and positioning the country as a competitive player in Africa’s fast-evolving digital economy.
