ISAT, AFRO MOBILE PLAN $3BN BROADBAND EXPANSION

Leading telecommunications companies, ISAT Nigeria and Afro Mobile, have announced plans to invest $3 billion over the next five years to significantly expand broadband infrastructure and improve internet access across Nigeria.

The joint venture, unveiled on Friday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, aims to bridge the digital divide by deploying advanced fibre optic networks, 5G infrastructure, and satellite-based solutions in underserved urban and rural communities. The ambitious project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while supporting the Federal Government’s digital economy agenda.

ISAT Nigeria Managing Director, Mr. Chinedu Okoro, described the partnership as a strategic response to growing demand for reliable high-speed internet. “This $3 billion investment will transform connectivity in Nigeria. We are committed to delivering world-class broadband services that empower businesses, education, healthcare, and governance,” Okoro stated.

Afro Mobile CEO, Mrs. Fatima Abubakar, highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving nationwide coverage. “By combining our resources and expertise, we will accelerate deployment and ensure no part of the country is left behind in the digital revolution,” she added.

The expansion plan includes laying thousands of kilometres of fibre optic cables, installing additional base stations, and leveraging satellite technology to reach remote areas. Special focus will be placed on education and health institutions to support e-learning and telemedicine initiatives.

The Federal Government has welcomed the investment, with the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, pledging full regulatory support and necessary incentives. “Public-private partnerships like this are critical to achieving our broadband penetration targets. We look forward to seamless collaboration,” Tijani noted.

Industry analysts believe the project could significantly boost Nigeria’s digital economy, attract foreign investment, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market. The initiative is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026, with initial focus on major commercial hubs before extending to rural communities.

As Nigeria pushes for greater digital inclusion, the $3 billion broadband expansion by ISAT and Afro Mobile represents a major boost to the nation’s connectivity goals.