Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, recently reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding digital connectivity across the West African country’s underserved communities through the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project (NUCAP). He made the announcement while receiving a delegation from China Industrial Bank (CIB), led by Peng Shuang, General Manager of the Strategic Emerging Industries Business Headquarters.
As per Dr Tijani, the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration on NUCAP, a major national initiative aimed at providing telecommunications access to more than 20 million Nigerians living in unserved and underserved communities. Through the project, the West African country will deploy 3,700 modern telecommunications towers across its territory, particularly targeting rural and riverine areas lacking reliable network coverage.
Describing NUCAP as a “wholly green network” initiative, Dr Tijani said that the programme has been designed to deliver sustainable and modern digital infrastructure to previously unconnected Nigerian communities.
“Improved connectivity would not only bridge the digital divide but also create opportunities for economic inclusion, education, innovation, and access to digital services for millions of Nigerians,” the minister remarked.
Highlighting the significance of China Industrial Bank’s involvement, Dr Tijani noted that the investment also represents the bank’s first major commitment in Nigeria.
“The partnership demonstrates increasing international confidence in Nigeria’s vision for digital transformation and inclusive economic growth through technology-driven infrastructure development,” he said.
The senior official further expressed optimism about the CIB’s support for the Nigerian government’s immediate target of delivering at least 1,000 telecommunications tower sites before the 2026 end, while stating that achieving this milestone would bring connectivity and new economic opportunities closer to millions of the West African country’s citizens who remain excluded from digital access.
Talking about the NUCAP, it will see the deployment of 3700 telecom towers that, apart from delivering voice and data services, will also provide public WiFi, digital learning tools and associated energy solutions in areas with poor infrastructure. As per the reports, the absence of basic mobile network coverage has limited people’s access to education, healthcare and, most importantly, financial inclusion.
The successful conclusion of NUCAP will usher in steady internet connections, transforming local communities and economies by enabling e-commerce, mobile banking, online education and better delivery of government services.