IHS Nigeria, a division of IHS Holding Limited (NYSE: IHS) – a prominent global player in shared communications infrastructure ownership, operation, and development – has officially concluded the deployment of more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables spanning all 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory. This achievement, realized through its subsidiary, Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL), represents a crucial step in advancing the objectives outlined in the Federal Government’s National Broadband Plan, aiming for a 70% broadband penetration rate in Nigeria by 2025.
In its broader strategic initiatives, IHS Nigeria is actively implementing fiber-to-the-tower (FTTT) technologies to enhance transmission capacity, elevate the performance of fiber access networks, and usher in cutting-edge technologies such as 5G services. By interconnecting towers, IHS Nigeria extends fiber optic infrastructure into major urban centers, facilitating the provision of digital services to residences, enterprises, and public institutions in collaboration with its partners.
Beyond the extensive fiber optic network established by GICL, IHS Nigeria has successfully extended mobile network coverage to over 580 previously unconnected rural communities across Nigeria through its rural telephony program. This endeavor aligns with the company’s commitment to meeting the deployment targets of mobile network operators and supporting the digital inclusion agenda set by the Federal Government.
Kazeem Oladepo, Vice President of GICL, remarked, “Metropolitan and long-haul fiber optic networks pose challenges to the enhancement of communication services and the introduction of emerging technologies and digital services in Nigeria. Our approach to fiber optic cable deployment emphasizes the establishment of networks based on shared, open access infrastructure, providing robust and scalable alternative fiber pairs and conduits. This design ensures that multiple operators can leverage the infrastructure. Through collaboration with various stakeholders, including our customers, state and federal agencies, we have successfully delivered a substantial volume of fiber optic cable networks within a span of less than three years. Our commitment to advancing the federal government’s digital economy goals is evident in this milestone, showcasing the accelerated deployment of critical infrastructure when key stakeholders align their objectives.”
