Slow Implementation threatens the National Broadband Plan, as Fibre network coverage hits 54,725km

Broadband is the transfer of high bandwidth of data over high-speed internet connection. Fibre-optic internet is a broadband connection that can reach speeds of up to 940 Megabits per second (Mbps), with low latency. The technology uses fibre-optic cables, which can send data as fast as about 70% the speed of light. In addition, fibre-optic cables are not as susceptible to severe weather conditions as other types of traditional cables, which helps minimize outages. It also resists electrical interference effectively.  

Fibre connectivity is essential for the broadband infrastructure of a nation willing to grow its digital presence and economy, this led the president to pledge 120,00km of fibre network connectivity around the country, such infrastructural coverage is critical to the economic development of the country.

Promise: After addressing uniform right of way charges, Next level is move broadband coverage to 120,000km of fibre network across Nigeria

Emma Okonji reported that “Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, gave an update on the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) as well as fibre optic deployment across the country said the third generation (3G) and fourth generation (4G) BTS deployment in Nigeria has reached 53,460 up from its initial 30,000 in 2020, while fibre optic transmission cables expanded from 47,000km to 54,725km in the last five years. Danbatta, who disclosed the information in Abuja recently, said the increase resulted in improved broadband/telecoms service delivery across networks.”

This slow deployment of fibre optics infrastructure threatens the president pledge of 120,000km coverage, and also the effectiveness of the government’s digital economic plan, moreover, work is still ongoing by the service provider to improve on the coverage.  

We rate this promise “In the Works”.

Reference:

Emma, Okonji. “Addressing Service Quality in Telecoms Sector”. ThisDay May, 2022.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/01/28/addressing-service-quality-in-

telecoms-sector/

. Accessed 17 October, 2022.

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