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Multi-Stakeholder Initiative Targets 70% Broadband Penetration by 2025
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy has launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN). This is a strategic initiative aimed at expanding broadband access and accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation. NBAN is expected to unlock Nigeria’s share of Africa’s $300 billion digital economy potential by addressing infrastructure gaps, promoting digital inclusion, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration.
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A report by McKinsey says expanding internet access across Africa could add up to $300 billion to the continent’s GDP by 2025. As one of Africa’s largest economies, Nigeria stands to gain significantly across key sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and finance.
Broadband Development: A Catalyst for Economic Growth
Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy outlined the ambitious broadband targets set by the government. Tijani was represented by Dr. Aminu Maina, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
“These targets reflect our unwavering commitment to ensuring that Broadband is accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all Nigerians,” said the minister.
NBAN’s targets
- 70% broadband penetration by 2025
- Minimum data speeds of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas
- 80% population coverage by 2027
- 300–500% increase in broadband investments by 2027
However, the minister highlighted a key infrastructure paradox. While Nigeria has witnessed a steady increase in broadband capacity, many networks remain underutilized . The challenges are listed below.
- Lack of access to necessary infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas
- Limited affordability of devices
- Inadequate digital literacy
Cumbersome regulatory processes - Power supply challenges
“These barriers not only hinder Nigeria’s digital transformation but also negatively impact the return on investment for broadband infrastructure,” Tijani noted.
He described it as a vicious cycle. “One that we must break in order to realize the full potential of broadband and its contribution to our digital economy.”
NBAN: A Collaborative Platform for Digital Inclusion
The National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) is a multi-stakeholder platform bringing together government, businesses, and other partners. NBAN’s objectives are listed below.
- Expand internet access across Nigeria
- Promote digital inclusion
- Increase broadband usage
- Drive innovation across industries
Industry leaders and stakeholders at the launch emphasized the critical role of broadband in Nigeria’s digital and economic growth.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), commended the initiative. He stressed the importance of affordable broadband to fully leverage digitalization for sustainable development.
Other key figures present included:
- Daser David, President & CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI)
- Olatubosun Alake, Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology, Lagos State Government
- Datong Dominic Gwaman, Director-General of the Plateau Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA).
Nigeria’s Path to a Connected Future
David highlighted the value of affordable broadband access to building capacity and creating job opportunities for young Nigerians in the new economy.
Daser and Akin Ogunlade. Head, Public Affairs Unit, DBI
With strong government backing and stakeholder engagement, the NBAN is expected to accelerate broadband expansion and fuel Nigeria’s digital economy growth. Achieving 70% broadband penetration and 80% population coverage will position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation, unlocking new economic opportunities and fostering innovation.
