Katsina State has outlined an ambitious digital transformation agenda that aims to achieve 70% broadband penetration and lay 2,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable across the state by 2030. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda (Ph.D., CON) disclosed the plan in a statement on his official X handle after participating in the Business Roundtable on Improving Investment in Broadband Connectivity and Safeguarding Critical Digital Infrastructure held in Abuja.
Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive digital development and strengthening governance through technology. “Our vision is to achieve 70% broadband penetration and lay at least 2,000km of fiber optic network across Katsina by 2030, ensuring that both rural and urban communities are fully connected,” he said. Describing broadband connectivity as essential to governance, education, healthcare, security, and economic growth, the governor emphasized that access to fast internet is now a “lifeline” for development.
He outlined several reforms already implemented to attract investment and enhance digital governance. These include establishing a dedicated Directorate of ICT, waiving Right-of-Way charges to encourage private sector participation, and introducing technology-driven systems such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA), e-Government platforms, and land administration reforms aimed at improving transparency and accountability.
The World Bank has recognized these efforts by awarding Katsina State an $8 million credit under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme. According to Governor Radda, the credit reflects investor confidence in the state’s governance model and its commitment to building a technology-driven economy. “This achievement reflects our seriousness about digital governance, investor confidence, and transparency,” he said, adding that Katsina is positioning itself as a regional leader in digital innovation.
Nigeria’s digital landscape has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by improved telecommunications infrastructure, affordable devices, and rising digital literacy. Katsina ranks among the top 10 states with the highest number of internet users, with about 4.6 million active users, reflecting significant connectivity expansion beyond major cities.
In 2020, the state recorded a 41.46% jump in mobile internet subscribers—the fastest in the country at the time—growing from 2.6 million in Q1 2019 to 3.68 million in Q1 2020. This progress aligns with national efforts to deepen broadband access. Earlier this year, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced a $2 billion broadband project to deliver universal connectivity across all 774 local government areas within three years. The project is expected to add $25 billion annually to Nigeria’s agricultural output and support economic diversification through improved rural connectivity.
Governor Radda stressed that federal collaboration and partnerships with development organizations are key to achieving Katsina’s broadband goals. With this plan, the state is setting the stage to become a major hub for digital growth and innovation in Northern Nigeria.
