Nigeria Commits $2 Billion to Digital Infrastructure, Aims to Boost AI and Tech Economy

Nigeria has announced a major $2 billion investment in digital infrastructure to enhance connectivity, protect citizens’ digital identities, and stimulate economic growth through technological advancement. Communications Minister Bosun Tijani revealed the investment as part of the nation’s digital transformation strategy.

The initiative builds on Nigeria’s expanding digital identity framework, following the recent mandatory implementation of National Identification Numbers (NIN) for accessing social services. The investment will enhance the country’s capacity to manage and protect citizen data.

“This investment is part of a larger vision to provide every Nigerian with access to high-quality digital services, while safeguarding their digital identities,” stated Minister Tijani. “We are committed to connecting every Nigerian, ensuring that digital infrastructure benefits all citizens.”

The funding announcement comes as Nigeria prepares for its first biometric national census in 19 years, which will incorporate facial and voice recognition systems. This approach reflects the government’s focus on modernizing its national data infrastructure.

At the recent International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Summit, ITU Deputy Secretary-General Tomas Lamanauskas recognized Nigeria’s leadership in African digital connectivity.

The investment is expected to boost Nigeria’s AI sector, which could add $15 billion to the nation’s GDP by 2030. Supporting programs include the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative and partnerships with Microsoft, Meta, and Nvidia.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is working to expand local data hosting capabilities. “Our goal is to create an ecosystem where both local data centre providers can scale, and global hyper-scalers see Nigeria as a viable investment destination,” said NITDA Director-General Malam Kashifu Inuwa.

Nigeria joins other nations prioritizing digital infrastructure, including Pakistan and Poland, which are implementing advanced digital identity and verification systems.

Sources: BusinessDay, Small Business Insights, Nairametrics

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February 26, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team