Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has concluded an official visit to Chad as part of efforts to strengthen regional digital connectivity and expand economic opportunities across West and Central Africa.
Tijani said the visit was aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to develop the digital infrastructure required to drive Nigeria’s economic growth while extending the benefits of such investments across the region.
He said the planned implementation of Project BRIDGE provides an opportunity to incorporate regional connections into Nigeria’s digital infrastructure plans.
According to a preliminary study cited by the minister, proposed links with Chad, Benin Republic, Niger and Cameroon could add nearly $1 billion to the countries’ combined Gross Domestic Product by 2030, requiring additional investment estimated at about three per cent of Project BRIDGE’s planned cost.
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The minister identified a direct connection between Nigeria and Chad as a key opportunity arising from his visit, saying the link could provide Chad with an additional route to international network capacity, reduce transit costs and strengthen the resilience of its digital infrastructure.
He added that the anticipated savings could translate into more affordable and reliable internet services for families and businesses, while Nigeria could benefit from an expanded market for its infrastructure and digital services.
The minister expressed appreciation to his Chadian counterpart, Halki Choua Mahamat, and the people of Chad for their hospitality.
Tijani also disclosed that Nigeria had engaged Benin Republic and Burkina Faso on regional digital connectivity, with discussions with Niger expected to follow.
He said the broader regional initiative would help strengthen economies, deepen cooperation and create shared opportunities across West and Central Africa.
