The European Union (EU) has agreed to invest an additional €45 million to accelerate the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy, officials announced at the EU-Nigeria Digital Open Day in Brussels.
The new funding forms part of the broader EU-Nigeria Digital Economy Package, an initiative under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy to support long-term digital transformation in Nigeria. The agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela.
Officials said the investment will help deepen cooperation between the EU and Nigeria in key areas such as digital infrastructure, skills development and modernising public services. It will support efforts to expand secure connectivity, strengthen e-governance systems, and improve digital public services that can benefit citizens and businesses.
A central focus of the programme is Project Bridge, described as one of Nigeria’s most ambitious digital infrastructure projects. This initiative aims to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network across the country, significantly boosting internet connectivity and laying the foundation for more inclusive digital access. The EU grant will provide technical assistance, support detailed network design and help build local capacity to maintain and operate the new infrastructure.
European officials highlighted that the partnership is built on principles of skills transfer, open standards, data protection, privacy and security to ensure technologies enrich lives and support Nigeria’s future economy. Commissioner Síkela said the investment opens up new opportunities for cooperation and reinforces the shared commitment to digital transformation.
Dr. Bosun Tijani said the strengthened partnership reflects Nigeria’s belief that digital transformation should drive productivity and economic growth. He noted that combining local talent, demand for digital services and policy alignment creates a favourable environment for investment and innovation.
The additional funding is part of a larger push to expand Nigeria’s digital capabilities and create a supportive ecosystem for technology adoption and innovation. Beyond infrastructure, the partnership will also contribute to training technicians, engineers and other specialists, helping to build a skilled workforce capable of driving the country’s digital future.
By enhancing connectivity, promoting modern digital systems and investing in people, the EU and Nigeria aim to make the digital economy a key pillar of national growth. The initiative is expected to attract more private sector participation and strengthen economic ties between Europe and Nigeria in the rapidly evolving technology space.
