The Federal Government has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing 24-hour internet access across Nigerian universities through the deployment of fibre-to-hostel and solar power projects. The launch took place at the University of Abuja (UniAbuja), marking a significant step towards enhancing digital connectivity and learning environments nationwide.
A Major Step Towards Digital Inclusion in Education
Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, announced that UniAbuja is the first of seven universities in the initial phase of this ambitious pilot scheme. He assured that all seven institutions are expected to be fully connected by the end of July 2025.
“This initiative we are launching today marks the beginning of a pilot project involving seven universities, which we aim to connect by the end of July,” Tijani stated.
“Galaxy Backbone already has the infrastructure in place, and our focus now is on extending fibre connectivity directly to student hostels.”
Tijani emphasized that reliable internet access is crucial for meaningful academic engagement and innovation, noting that this initiative will empower students to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s forward-looking national development.
Supporting Learning with Reliable Power and Connectivity
Morufu Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to creating environments where teaching and learning can thrive. He highlighted UniAbuja as a flagship beneficiary, now equipped with round-the-clock internet accessed through fibre-optic cables and supported by the university’s 3.3-megawatt mini-grid power system, which provides continuous electricity.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing energy infrastructure as a backbone for digital development. Alausa stated that, by the end of 2026, nearly all special institutions across Nigeria will benefit from mini-grids and solar power systems to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply—an essential component for the optimal functioning of internet infrastructure.
A Transformative Move for Students and Institutional Growth
Patricia Lar, Acting Vice-Chancellor of UniAbuja, expressed her enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact. She highlighted that enhanced connectivity and reliable power supply would enable students from diverse backgrounds to access data, foster creativity, and support personal development.
“This is a transformative project that will significantly benefit our students and staff. Fibre connectivity to the hostels, complemented by solar power backup, will open new horizons for learning, research, and innovation,” Lar remarked.
A Vision for a Smarter Nigeria
This initiative aligns with the federal government’s broader strategy to energize Nigeria’s educational landscape by integrating sustainable energy solutions and digital infrastructure. By ensuring consistent power and internet access, Nigeria aims to unlock the full potential of its universities and foster a knowledge-driven economy.
With the successful rollout of these projects in UniAbuja and other selected institutions, Nigeria is taking a significant step toward digital inclusivity and sustainable development, empowering the next generation of innovators to thrive.
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