Nigeria explores new fiber routes to reduce internet costs in Burkina Faso by up to 50%

This initiative is part of Nigeria's efforts to extend its digital infrastructure beyond its borders and enhance connectivity across West Africa and the Sahel regions. Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, discussed these plans with Burkina Faso's Minister for Digital Transition, Posts and Communication, Aminata Zerbo-Sabané, in Ouagadougou. Two potential corridors are being considered: one from Nigeria through Niger to Burkina Faso, and another from Nigeria through Benin to Burkina Faso.

A Technical Working Committee will be established to develop an implementation framework for this partnership. The objective is to provide Burkina Faso with a more affordable and resilient path to international internet connectivity. This proposal builds on Nigeria's Project BRIDGE, which aims to expand the country's open-access fiber infrastructure.

Nigeria also seeks to leverage its growing digital infrastructure to foster regional economic integration and position itself as a digital gateway to West Africa and the Sahel. The proposed routes could also improve resilience by offering Burkina Faso multiple paths for internet traffic. Beyond fiber, both countries plan to deepen cooperation in digital skills, technology startups, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and r