FG Plans Cross-Border Telecom Expansion to Strengthen Security, Reduce Data Costs

FG Plans Cross-Border Telecom Expansion to Strengthen Security, Reduce Data Costs

The Federal Government has unveiled a plan to extend Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure beyond its borders, linking neighbouring countries in a move aimed at enhancing security and lowering the cost of connectivity across the region.

The initiative was announced on Monday at the Nigerian Satellite Week (NSATWK 2026) in Abuja, organised by the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the project forms part of a broader effort to modernise Nigeria’s digital infrastructure while addressing emerging security challenges.

He disclosed that the government is investing in an extensive fibre-optic network spanning about 90,000 kilometres, which will also extend into neighbouring countries such as Cameroon, Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad.

“Our president is investing in 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic network, and this network will extend into neighbouring countries,” Tijani said.

He explained that the cross-border connectivity would significantly reduce internet costs across West Africa, noting that data prices in some neighbouring countries are currently far higher than in Lagos.

Beyond affordability, the minister stressed that the infrastructure would bolster national security by improving surveillance and intelligence capabilities along Nigeria’s borders.

“This fibre network will also provide opportunities for the military because it will run across our borders, giving us more capability for fibre sensing,” he added.

Tijani also highlighted Nigeria’s position as a satellite-owning country, noting that services provided by NigComSat continue to deliver connectivity to remote and underserved areas, supporting sectors such as agriculture, education, commerce and security.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the acquisition of additional satellites, describing it as a forward-looking step toward strengthening the country’s digital future.

While emphasising the importance of infrastructure, Tijani noted that investment must be matched with practical applications that deliver measurable impact, particularly in security where satellite technology plays a critical role.

In her welcome address, the Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, said the event reflects Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging space technology for national development.

She highlighted Project 774, an initiative aimed at delivering satellite-enabled connectivity to all local government areas, ensuring that rural communities are not excluded from the digital economy.

Egerton-Idehen also pointed to Nigeria’s growing influence in the global satellite space through partnerships with organisations such as Eutelsat and the Kenya Space Agency, as well as its Vice Chairmanship of the Global Satellite Operators Association.

Also speaking, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, underscored the importance of satellite technology in advancing communication, security, education and emergency services.

The NSATWK 2026 event brought together policymakers, industry players, researchers and innovators, providing a platform for collaboration aimed at positioning Nigeria as a major player in Africa’s digital and satellite economy.