In a major step forward for national connectivity, NigComSat and the Federal Government have announced plans to extend internet access to approximately 20 million Nigerians who currently lack reliable connectivity. The initiative signals renewed momentum toward closing the digital divide across underserved and rural areas of the country.
At a recent public hearing on a bill to digitise government operations, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy revealed that the plan involves the deployment of some 4,000 new communication towers, as well as a substantial expansion of fibre-optic infrastructure nationwide. The rollout is intended to integrate satellite connectivity from NigComSat — leveraging Nigeria’s own space-based infrastructure to reach remote communities.
According to the Minister, despite recent gains in internet penetration, a significant portion of the population remains offline — a gap that this programme aims to close. The expansion effort is also part of a broader national drive to accelerate broadband access, boost digital inclusion, and support essential services like education, health, commerce, and governance.
For its part, NigComSat says the expansion is part of a strategy to better utilise its satellite capacity — much of which has been under-utilised — and to partner with private and public stakeholders to deliver affordable internet across Nigeria. The company sees the plan as a major opportunity to bring connectivity to rural schools, health centres, local government offices and underserved communities.
If successful, the programme could significantly increase digital access across Nigeria — offering new opportunities for growth, learning, commerce and inclusion. It would also mark a landmark achievement in the country’s ambition to narrow the digital divide and bring meaningful internet access to every citizen, regardless of location.
