Nigeria’s push for nationwide broadband expansion gets a boost as the Federal Government taps a top financial institution to structure its massive fibre rollout plan.
The Federal Government has appointed Quest Merchant Bank as Transaction Advisor for Project BRIDGE, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s digital infrastructure through expanded fibre-optic connectivity.
The appointment was announced by the bank’s Acting Managing Director, Afolabi Olorode, who said the project is a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy and attracting private sector investment.
Project BRIDGE (Broadband Infrastructure Development for the Digital Economy) is being driven by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy under Minister Bosun Tijani.
The initiative targets the deployment of about 90,000 kilometres of open-access fibre-optic cables nationwide to improve broadband access, deepen digital inclusion, and support economic growth.
Under its role, Quest Merchant Bank will help structure the project’s financial and commercial framework, design a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, and develop investment structures that can attract both local and international investors.
Olorode said the initiative is critical to unlocking opportunities in Nigeria’s digital economy, while ensuring long-term sustainability through private sector participation.
The bank’s Head of Investment Banking, Yetunde Falore, added that improved broadband infrastructure will have ripple effects across key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and commerce.
The project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital expansion and infrastructure development.
It is expected to be implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle, with government, private investors, and multilateral partners working together, with rollout targeted to begin by Q3 2026.
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