FG launches nationwide plan to connect schools to the internet

The Federal Government has announced a nationwide initiative to provide internet connectivity to schools, aiming to enhance digital learning and expand access to modern educational tools.

The plan was discussed on Wednesday during a meeting between the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.

In his address, Alausa explained that the programme will leverage technology, including Artificial Intelligence, to improve educational quality and broaden access to digital resources for both students and teachers.

“The initiative is not limited to broadband fibre alone. It also involves telecommunications towers, satellite systems, and other digital infrastructure to provide reliable internet access nationwide,” Alausa said.

He added that a coordinated framework will be developed to ensure connectivity across all education levels, from primary and secondary schools to universities and colleges, building on previous efforts by the Nigerian Research and Education Network.

The government plans to deploy approximately 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic broadband and install about 3,700 telecommunications towers, particularly targeting rural and underserved areas, with technical working groups established to oversee implementation.

Also speaking, Tijani stressed that technology-driven education cannot thrive without reliable internet connectivity, noting that although Nigeria hosts several international subsea internet cables, the major challenge remains distributing that capacity inland through extensive fibre networks capable of reaching schools and communities across the country.

The first phase of the initiative is expected to deliver tangible improvements within three months, allowing students and teachers access to digital platforms, global knowledge resources, and emerging technologies.