By Juliet Ebirim

The Federal Government on Monday took a significant leap towards a digitally inclusive Nigeria with the launch of the pilot phase of the “Fibre 2 Hostel” initiative. Spearheaded by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, this project aims to deliver high-speed internet directly to students in tertiary institutions, starting with the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

Speaking at the UNILAG launch, Dr. Tijani emphasized that “Fibre 2 Hostel” is a crucial part of the government’s strategy to boost digital connectivity, bridge the digital divide and foster innovation in educational institutions.
“This is a strategic milestone in our nation’s journey to drive meaningful connectivity across our country, and a powerful step towards improving the daily digital experience for students across Nigeria. It is a significant step by our president in building the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable digital economy, one where students are not left behind simply because of where they are located or what resources they have.” he said.

The minister also stated that reliable broadband is an essential tool for national development, powering academic research and collaboration. He announced that after UNILAG, the project will expand to seven more universities before a nationwide rollout.
“Fibre 2 Hostel” is a key component of the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria, designed to increase internet usage by directly connecting public institutions like universities. This initiative complements other government programs such as Project 774, which aims to connect all local government secretariats, and the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.
In her remarks, UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola expressed gratitude for the university’s selection as the pilot site, noting that the initiative aligns with UNILAG’s vision for full digitalization. Four UNILAG hostels have already been connected in this phase, with the project being a collaborative effort with Galaxy Backbone Limited, Tizeti Network, and Huawei.