ICT sector boosts economy as broadband expansion gains momentum
Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology sector contributed N9.44tn to the economy in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting increased focus on broadband expansion. Stakeholders are calling for improved inland distribution, reduced infrastructure duplication, and more local manufacturing. The government, led by Bola Tinubu, is pushing new initiatives to bridge the digital divide, especially in underserved regions. Recent investments in local cable manufacturing and rural telecom towers aim to accelerate nationwide connectivity.
What we know
- The ICT sector added N9.44tn to Nigeria’s GDP in Q3 2025, with telecoms and information services leading at N7.47tn.
- Despite growth, fixed broadband penetration remains low at just six percent, leaving many rural areas disconnected.
- Stakeholders urge the government to fast-track “Project Bridge,” a 90,000-kilometre national fibre backbone for better coverage.
- The Federal Government plans to build 3,700 new telecom towers to connect 23 million Nigerians, particularly in the North.
- Local cable manufacturing, highlighted by the new Coleman factory in Ogun State, is seen as crucial for affordable and rapid infrastructure rollout.
