ATCON $900m broadband expansion plan gains support as telecom operators push local ISPs to drive Nigeria’s digital economy and connectivity growth

The Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) on Wednesday in Lagos expressed strong support for a $900 million nationwide broadband expansion initiative aimed at deepening digital access and strengthening Nigeria’s technology-driven economy.

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ATCON President Tony Emoekpere said the success of the country’s digital transformation will depend on empowering indigenous Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to extend connectivity beyond major urban centres into underserved communities.

He stressed that local operators are better positioned to deliver last-mile internet services, stimulate innovation and support grassroots digital growth across the country.

The initiative is anchored on Project BRIDGE, a large-scale fibre optic rollout backed by a combined $900 million in funding from global development partners, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and Agence Française de Développement.

The project is designed to expand broadband infrastructure nationwide, covering all states, local government areas and wards, with an open-access model expected to create opportunities for smaller ISPs and local technology firms.

Industry stakeholders say the project could mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s connectivity landscape by closing long-standing infrastructure gaps and accelerating digital inclusion.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting, telecom stakeholder Chidi Ibisi of Broadbased Communication Limited emphasised that local content should be viewed as an economic growth strategy rather than protectionist policy, noting the importance of SME participation in driving national development.

Ibisi highlighted that small and medium-sized enterprises remain a dominant force in Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment.

Stakeholders agreed that the broadband expansion could stimulate job creation, expand digital services and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global tech ecosystem if properly implemented.

They also called for a clear local content framework for the telecom sector, warning that weak policy execution could limit the initiative’s impact.

ATCON further disclosed plans to work with stakeholders on developing structured guidelines and a multi-agency framework to support implementation and industry alignment.

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The meeting concluded with a consensus that empowering local ISPs and SMEs will be central to achieving Nigeria’s long-term digital and economic ambitions.