The World Bank has pledged support for a massive 90,000-kilometer fiber optic cable rollout across Nigeria, a project that aims to transform digital broadband access nationwide and underpin key development goals in energy, education, health, and agriculture.
The announcement was made by Anshula Kant, Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of the World Bank Group, during a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu in Abuja on Wednesday.
Kant described the broadband project as one of the largest digital infrastructure undertakings globally and a major component of the World Bank’s deepening collaboration with Nigeria.
“One of the biggest forthcoming projects will be in the digital space—providing digital broadband access across the country,” she said, adding that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to accelerate inclusive economic growth and job creation.
Kant highlighted Nigeria’s reform momentum under the Tinubu administration, commending recent macroeconomic policies that she said position the country favorably for long-term support and investment.
“Nigeria is on the right path. The World Bank is committed to helping the country unlock faster economic development and create the jobs and opportunities its population needs,” she said.
Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Wale Edun, emphasized the transformative nature of the fiber optic project. He noted that the initiative is being led by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, under Minister Bosun Tijani, and represents one of the largest efforts of its kind globally.
“This is a landmark project that will significantly enhance Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and connectivity,” Edun said.
Kant also stressed the importance of human capital development and youth employment, pointing to energy access, digital services, and quality healthcare as foundational pillars for Nigeria’s progress.
The meeting underscored the strategic alignment between the World Bank’s development priorities and Nigeria’s national agenda, with upcoming infrastructure investments expected to improve digital access, drive productivity, and uplift living standards across the country.
