The European Union has committed €14 million in grant funding to support Nigeria’s plan to expand broadband connectivity through the development of a nationwide fibre-optic network spanning approximately 90,000 kilometres.

The funding is expected to cover network design, project preparation, technical studies and capacity-building initiatives as the Federal Government works to improve internet access and strengthen the country’s digital economy.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by representatives of the Federal Government, the European Union and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which will administer the grant.

The initiative is intended to support preparations for the nationwide fibre-optic backbone project, which aims to increase broadband availability, improve access to digital services and support businesses, particularly in underserved communities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, said the partnership would strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and contribute to economic development.

He explained that the grant would support more than technical preparations, with additional provisions for institutional development, knowledge transfer and capacity building.

Bagudu noted that these components were important for ensuring effective project implementation, developing local expertise and sustaining investments in digital infrastructure over the long term.

The minister said the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning would coordinate and oversee the initiative, while the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy would supervise its technical implementation.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to international partnerships aimed at expanding digital connectivity and promoting inclusive economic growth.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Deborah Odoh, described the agreement as a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and institutional capacity.

She expressed appreciation to the EU and the EBRD for their continued support and reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency, effective coordination and cooperation with development partners.

Odoh explained that her ministry would execute the grant agreement on behalf of the Federal Government, while the communications ministry would oversee technical implementation through its project implementation units.

The European Union representative in Nigeria, Massimo De Luca, also reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to supporting the country’s digital transformation through investment and institutional cooperation.

He emphasised the importance of sustained engagement among the participating institutions to ensure the timely implementation of the initiative.

The €14 million grant will fund preparatory work and capacity-building activities rather than the actual construction of the entire 90,000-kilometre network. The broader project is expected to improve broadband access nationwide and support Nigeria’s long-term digital development.