Nigeria Extends Fiber Optic Backbone to Burkina Faso
The Nigerian government is extending its $2 billion Project Bridge initiative to neighboring Burkina Faso, aiming to reduce internet connectivity costs by nearly 50% and bridge the digital divide in the West African nation.
Under a collaborative framework between both countries’ ministries of communication, teams will model connectivity routes through Nigeria-Niger-Burkina Faso and Nigeria-Benin-Burkina Faso. The move aligns with Nigeria’s strategy to position itself as a regional digital hub and foster economic integration across borders.
Key Components of the Partnership:
- Connectivity Cost Reduction: Targetting a 50% decrease in internet expenses for Burkina Faso
- Technical Framework: Establishment of a joint Technical Working Committee to develop implementation plans
- Digital Skills Transfer: Sharing Nigeria’s 3MTT model to enhance digital literacy and talent development
- Ecosystem Collaboration: Strengthening ties between startup communities, supporting innovation campuses, and joint research in AI and cybersecurity
Why This Matters for Burkina Faso:
Burkina Faso currently has 85% mobile network coverage but faces significant gaps in high-speed internet access. While the country has 29.3 million active mobile connections across a population of roughly 24.6 million, only about 28% use the internet regularly due to infrastructure limitations and security challenges.
Project Bridge represents a major opportunity for Burkina Faso to expand digital inclusion and accelerate its economic transformation by bringing more citizens online.