A major U.S.-Nigeria technology summit ends with a $2 million broadband grant to assess new fiber optic infrastructure, enhancing Nigeria's digital future.
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| The U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue culminates in a $2 million grant for broadband expansion, aiming to boost Nigeria's internet connectivity and digital economy. |
Washington, D.C., USA – January 14, 2025:
In a significant step toward advancing bilateral cooperation in technology, the U.S. Department of State hosted the inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue on January 10 in Washington, D.C. The event was led by Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell and featured a high-level delegation from Nigeria, headed by the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani. The dialogue marked a key moment in enhancing collaboration between the two nations in critical technology sectors such as digital infrastructure, innovation, and artificial intelligence (AI).
US State Department on Monday stated that this dialogue builds on a series of ongoing engagements between the U.S. and Nigeria, including the sixth U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission (BNC) in April 2024 and the "Global Inclusivity and AI" event held in Lagos. The Technology Dialogue supports the goals of the Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative, fostering digital infrastructure growth, enhancing digital skills development, and promoting a favorable environment for technological investments in Africa.
A major outcome of the meeting was the signing of a $2,095,000 grant to evaluate the feasibility of deploying 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic backbone infrastructure across Nigeria. Funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, this project supports Nigeria's National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, aiming to increase the country’s broadband penetration rate from 42.27% to 70%. The initiative is expected to bring affordable and reliable broadband access to 90% of Nigeria’s population, significantly strengthening the nation’s digital connectivity and driving inclusive economic growth.
During the dialogue, both countries discussed a range of key issues, including the enhancement of digital resilience and security, the promotion of digital trade, and the development of a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the digital age. Another focus was expanding AI cooperation, with discussions centered on building infrastructure and ensuring rights-respecting governance frameworks to facilitate AI-driven growth. The dialogue also touched on information integrity, emphasizing the importance of combating disinformation in the digital space.
Following the formal session, participants joined a roundtable discussion hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, with over 25 U.S. and Nigerian industry leaders from sectors like telecommunications, cybersecurity, fintech, aerospace, and AI. The discussions explored opportunities for public-private partnerships and investment solutions aimed at driving innovation and fostering digital talent development. Additionally, a panel focused on the role of critical infrastructure in supporting AI adoption for inclusive growth, emphasizing how infrastructure and governance can propel emerging technologies.
Looking ahead, the U.S. and Nigeria also agreed to organize a virtual expert exchange on AI-enabled biotechnology. This collaboration will explore how the convergence of AI and biotechnology can drive advancements in global health, food security, and scientific progress, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
The U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue represents a milestone in the growing technological partnership between the two nations, as they work together to create a more connected, innovative, and sustainable digital future for Africa and beyond.