China’s zero-tariff policy on goods from 53 African countries took effect on May 1, with Nigeria expected to benefit. Questions remain over its readiness to take advantage of the move, amid concerns over infrastructure, export capacity and technology transfer.
Showing posts with label infrastructure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label infrastructure. Show all posts
Monday, May 11, 2026
Experts question Nigeria’s readiness for China’s zero-tariff policy
China’s zero-tariff policy on goods from 53 African countries took effect on May 1, with Nigeria expected to benefit. Questions remain over its readiness to take advantage of the move, amid concerns over infrastructure, export capacity and technology transfer.
How Nigerians are coping with heat waves amid crippling power outages
Nigerians are currently facing severe heat stress. People across the West African country are complaining about the unusually hot weather. The extreme heat has caused widespread distress, with many social media users reporting that it is affecting their health and reducing their productivity.
According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the heat stress is occurring because March falls in Nigeria’s peak transitional heat window — after the Harmattan dry season ends but before the rainy season begins. The heat is affecting people in many parts of the country, but it is more pronounced in some areas. The most affected areas are in the north-central, north-west, and north-east regions, as well as inland areas of the southern states.
By Abdulrosheed Fadipe, Global Voices
According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the heat stress is occurring because March falls in Nigeria’s peak transitional heat window — after the Harmattan dry season ends but before the rainy season begins. The heat is affecting people in many parts of the country, but it is more pronounced in some areas. The most affected areas are in the north-central, north-west, and north-east regions, as well as inland areas of the southern states.
Impact of the heat stress on Nigerians
Global Voices spoke to some Nigerians to understand the impact of the heat stress on their communities and how it is affecting their work and everyday life.
Onyekachi Ogbu is an Igbo-language consultant and AI data specialist. He lives in Enugu, Nigeria. He explains how the heat stress is affecting his productivity and everyday life:
"It makes it difficult to work, especially for a person like me who works from home. We don't use the regular power supply in my house. We rely on solar power and a power generator for power, but the solar power does not last for 24 hours. So, we majorly use it when the sun is shining from peak from 9 am to 12 pm or 1 pm. We use it mostly at night, and we can not use it to power fans because it is incapable of powering fans. So, we mostly rely on natural air entering the house from the windows. It's only when we are on the power generating set that we can use the ceiling fans. Because of the heat, it is hard to work indoors. Sometimes, I would have to work on my laptop outside to get fresh air as I work.
The heat is also causing distraction. Imagine having a virtual meeting, and you have to be fully clothed, and you are sweating heavily as the meeting is ongoing. It will cause distraction because you won’t be comfortable because you can’t take off your clothes while having virtual meetings.
What I rely on to work easily these days is to use hand fans or step outside of the house. On some occasions, I buy fuel for the generator, but I cannot afford to do this every time because fuel price is high.
I believe everyone is feeling the heat stress, but many people in rural areas have limited awareness about it. That's why we need to create awareness for them to take safety precautions such as staying hydrated and being well-aerated."
Adewale Afolabi, a commercial rider in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, said the heat is unbearable:
"The heat is too much and it is affecting my work, but I must continue working in order to take care of myself and my family."
Muh’d Tasi’u Jibril, a linguist living in Bauchi, narrates how the heat is affecting people living in the Northern part of the country:
"The heat has been unbearable for the last two weeks. As for a remote worker like me, I cannot work around 11pm to 3pm due to the unbearable heat. The heat was too much during the last ten days of Ramadan. It was so hot that people suffering from ulcer had to break their fast.
Normally, over here we used to experience the harmattan season during the months December, January and February. But this year there is nothing like that.
The heat did not affect my daily work since I work remotely. It is just the epileptic power supply that is making me feel the heat because you won't be able to use ACs and fans. I hardly sleep at night. I only sleep when I am able to find an alternative source of power to power fans and ACs. Also, it is difficult to get cold water to drink in this period because there is no electricity. What we used to do to cope with the heat stress at night is sleep outdoors, but we can no longer do that due to insecurity. It's only those who can afford solar panels that can power fans or AC that are not affected by the heat stress."
Nigeria’s power crisis worsens the situation
The worsening state of power supply in the country has made the situation worse. The National power grid has collapsed many times in 2026. This has led to nationwide blackouts, which have made it difficult for many citizens to cope with the heat stress. Due to the power cut, many Nigerians cannot use electrical appliances such as fans and ACs that could provide comfort. On March 24, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, apologized to Nigerians for the frequent power outages.
Adesewa Popoola, an entrepreneur in Lagos, narrated how the heat stress is affecting Lagosians and how the crippling power supply has worsened the situation:
"I live in a neighbourhood where there is not much space between houses, and because there is no adequate ventilation in the houses in the area. I have noticed a significant change in the temperature pattern over the years. December is supposed to be the Harmattan season, when it might be hot during the day and cold during the evenings. But there was no Harmattan in Lagos throughout December and January. The temperature is always hot throughout the day. The heat has affected my work and daily life. There are times I need to go out and do some things. Once the time is past 10a.m. I won’t be able to go out, because of the extreme heat. I only go out when I am able to get a ride to my destinations. On many occasions, I have to wait till evenings when the heat has reduced before going out If I am unable to get a ride.
If I have an appointment, I have to be mentally prepared for coping with the heat. It is also affecting the way I dress. I am unable to wear some of my clothes because of the heat.
In order to cope with the heat, I stay indoors most times, bath as many times as I can, and drink water regularly.
About awareness, I think most people are not aware of the risks of the heat.
We all know the current situation of electricity in Nigeria. Due to epileptic nature of the power supply, it is difficult to cope with the heat, especially during nighttime when the heat is intense. Since there is no power, many people cannot turn on their fans. To make the matter worse, a lot of people cannot afford to buy fuel because of the hike in the price of fuel. It would have been easier to cope with the heat stress if the power supply is stable."
Global Voices spoke to some Nigerians to understand the impact of the heat stress on their communities and how it is affecting their work and everyday life.
Onyekachi Ogbu is an Igbo-language consultant and AI data specialist. He lives in Enugu, Nigeria. He explains how the heat stress is affecting his productivity and everyday life:
"It makes it difficult to work, especially for a person like me who works from home. We don't use the regular power supply in my house. We rely on solar power and a power generator for power, but the solar power does not last for 24 hours. So, we majorly use it when the sun is shining from peak from 9 am to 12 pm or 1 pm. We use it mostly at night, and we can not use it to power fans because it is incapable of powering fans. So, we mostly rely on natural air entering the house from the windows. It's only when we are on the power generating set that we can use the ceiling fans. Because of the heat, it is hard to work indoors. Sometimes, I would have to work on my laptop outside to get fresh air as I work.
The heat is also causing distraction. Imagine having a virtual meeting, and you have to be fully clothed, and you are sweating heavily as the meeting is ongoing. It will cause distraction because you won’t be comfortable because you can’t take off your clothes while having virtual meetings.
What I rely on to work easily these days is to use hand fans or step outside of the house. On some occasions, I buy fuel for the generator, but I cannot afford to do this every time because fuel price is high.
I believe everyone is feeling the heat stress, but many people in rural areas have limited awareness about it. That's why we need to create awareness for them to take safety precautions such as staying hydrated and being well-aerated."
Adewale Afolabi, a commercial rider in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, said the heat is unbearable:
"The heat is too much and it is affecting my work, but I must continue working in order to take care of myself and my family."
Muh’d Tasi’u Jibril, a linguist living in Bauchi, narrates how the heat is affecting people living in the Northern part of the country:
"The heat has been unbearable for the last two weeks. As for a remote worker like me, I cannot work around 11pm to 3pm due to the unbearable heat. The heat was too much during the last ten days of Ramadan. It was so hot that people suffering from ulcer had to break their fast.
Normally, over here we used to experience the harmattan season during the months December, January and February. But this year there is nothing like that.
The heat did not affect my daily work since I work remotely. It is just the epileptic power supply that is making me feel the heat because you won't be able to use ACs and fans. I hardly sleep at night. I only sleep when I am able to find an alternative source of power to power fans and ACs. Also, it is difficult to get cold water to drink in this period because there is no electricity. What we used to do to cope with the heat stress at night is sleep outdoors, but we can no longer do that due to insecurity. It's only those who can afford solar panels that can power fans or AC that are not affected by the heat stress."
Nigeria’s power crisis worsens the situation
The worsening state of power supply in the country has made the situation worse. The National power grid has collapsed many times in 2026. This has led to nationwide blackouts, which have made it difficult for many citizens to cope with the heat stress. Due to the power cut, many Nigerians cannot use electrical appliances such as fans and ACs that could provide comfort. On March 24, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, apologized to Nigerians for the frequent power outages.
Adesewa Popoola, an entrepreneur in Lagos, narrated how the heat stress is affecting Lagosians and how the crippling power supply has worsened the situation:
"I live in a neighbourhood where there is not much space between houses, and because there is no adequate ventilation in the houses in the area. I have noticed a significant change in the temperature pattern over the years. December is supposed to be the Harmattan season, when it might be hot during the day and cold during the evenings. But there was no Harmattan in Lagos throughout December and January. The temperature is always hot throughout the day. The heat has affected my work and daily life. There are times I need to go out and do some things. Once the time is past 10a.m. I won’t be able to go out, because of the extreme heat. I only go out when I am able to get a ride to my destinations. On many occasions, I have to wait till evenings when the heat has reduced before going out If I am unable to get a ride.
If I have an appointment, I have to be mentally prepared for coping with the heat. It is also affecting the way I dress. I am unable to wear some of my clothes because of the heat.
In order to cope with the heat, I stay indoors most times, bath as many times as I can, and drink water regularly.
About awareness, I think most people are not aware of the risks of the heat.
We all know the current situation of electricity in Nigeria. Due to epileptic nature of the power supply, it is difficult to cope with the heat, especially during nighttime when the heat is intense. Since there is no power, many people cannot turn on their fans. To make the matter worse, a lot of people cannot afford to buy fuel because of the hike in the price of fuel. It would have been easier to cope with the heat stress if the power supply is stable."
Cause of the heat wave and recommendations
Researchers have attributed the cause of the heat stress to climate change.
Earlier in March, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) issued a nationwide alert, warning the general public about the health risks the heat stress may pose in some parts of the country. The agency also warned the public to take necessary precautions to reduce their exposure to the heat. In the X post, NIMET encouraged Nigerians to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, stay in well-ventilated or air-conditioned rooms, wear light, breathable clothing, and wear hats, sunshades, and sunscreens. It advised parents to keep infants cool and hydrated, and never leave children in a closed, parked vehicle.
People are hoping the rainy season starts soon to ease heat stress.
Researchers have attributed the cause of the heat stress to climate change.
Earlier in March, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) issued a nationwide alert, warning the general public about the health risks the heat stress may pose in some parts of the country. The agency also warned the public to take necessary precautions to reduce their exposure to the heat. In the X post, NIMET encouraged Nigerians to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, stay in well-ventilated or air-conditioned rooms, wear light, breathable clothing, and wear hats, sunshades, and sunscreens. It advised parents to keep infants cool and hydrated, and never leave children in a closed, parked vehicle.
People are hoping the rainy season starts soon to ease heat stress.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Nigeria firm unveils Africa's largest EV charging hub
Nigeria is making an ambitious push into the future of transportation with the unveiling of what is being described as Africa’s largest electric vehicle charging hub — a bold signal that the continent’s biggest economy wants a serious seat at the global EV table.
The project, launched in Abuja, is more than just another charging station. It represents a growing movement toward cleaner mobility, local EV assembly, and reduced dependence on petrol in a country long defined by oil production. Officials say the initiative supports Nigeria’s broader automotive transformation plans, which include increasing the share of electric vehicles produced locally.
At the center of the rollout is a massive charging infrastructure designed to tackle one of Africa’s biggest EV problems: range anxiety and the lack of reliable charging networks. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly warned that infrastructure — not vehicle availability — could determine whether electric mobility succeeds in Nigeria.
The move comes as Nigerian companies rapidly expand into the EV space. Firms are introducing locally assembled electric buses, delivery vans, and passenger vehicles while also experimenting with fast-charging hubs and renewable-powered systems. Some new charging sites in Lagos can reportedly serve multiple vehicles simultaneously using dual-gun DC fast chargers capable of reaching 20–80% charge in under an hour.
But the excitement is being met with skepticism as well.
Across online discussions and industry forums, many Nigerians point to the country’s unstable electricity grid as the elephant in the room. Several commenters argue that EV adoption cannot scale without major improvements in power generation and distribution. Others believe solar-powered charging networks and decentralized mini-grids could become the workaround Nigeria needs.
Despite the challenges, momentum is clearly building. Rising fuel prices, government pressure for cleaner transportation, and growing investment in local manufacturing are pushing electric mobility from concept to reality. Companies entering the market say they are not simply selling vehicles — they are trying to build an entire ecosystem around charging, battery support, and renewable energy integration.
Whether Nigeria can truly become a continental EV leader will likely depend on one critical question: can the country build the infrastructure fast enough to support the vision?
Related stories: Video - Nigeria’s push for electric motorcycles faces major hurdles
Video - Nigeria, China partner to build EV plantsWednesday, April 29, 2026
Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos bets on local power as grid falters
Lagos is betting that Nigeria's chronic electricity shortages can be addressed outside the national grid, scaling up state-backed power generation and distribution after securing 400 megawatts of new supply, the state's energy commissioner said.
Africa’s largest city is pressing ahead under reforms that allow sub-national governments to regulate power as Nigeria’s grid struggles. At least 22 other states are also setting up electricity markets to reduce reliance on the centralised system in Abuja, according to data from the power regulator.
"We are seeking to move beyond a single point of failure," Lagos Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources Biodun Ogunleye said at a conference organised by BusinessDay newspaper on Tuesday.
Nigeria's grid delivers about 3,000 MW on a good day, far short of estimated demand of more than 30,000 MW, according to government power plans, forcing businesses and households to rely on diesel generators.
Lagos activated its electricity regulatory regime in June 2025 and transferred oversight of intrastate electricity matters from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission. By the end of the year, it had assumed full regulatory control of its electricity market, becoming the first Nigerian state to do so, officials said.
In a circular last year, NERC said state regulators would oversee intrastate electricity matters, while it would retain responsibility for interstate electricity transactions, national grid operations and industry standards.
Lagos has signed power purchase agreements with Fenchurch Power, Mainland Power and Viathan Engineering Limited to supply up to 400 MW to public facilities over three years.
"These are not business-as-usual PPAs," Ogunleye said. "They represent a fundamental shift in how Lagos procures and pays for power."
Lagos has scrapped "take-or-pay" and "deemed energy" provisions, which required payments even when power was not delivered, and will instead pay only for metered electricity supplied, officials said.
Analysts said state-level power markets could improve reliability but would not remove constraints including gas supply, foreign exchange exposure, affordability, transmission bottlenecks and weak technical capacity.
"Capital is available, but revenue assurance is a problem," said Bola Adigun, a partner at Deloitte Nigeria.
By Isaac Anyaogu, Reuters
Africa’s largest city is pressing ahead under reforms that allow sub-national governments to regulate power as Nigeria’s grid struggles. At least 22 other states are also setting up electricity markets to reduce reliance on the centralised system in Abuja, according to data from the power regulator.
"We are seeking to move beyond a single point of failure," Lagos Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources Biodun Ogunleye said at a conference organised by BusinessDay newspaper on Tuesday.
Nigeria's grid delivers about 3,000 MW on a good day, far short of estimated demand of more than 30,000 MW, according to government power plans, forcing businesses and households to rely on diesel generators.
Lagos activated its electricity regulatory regime in June 2025 and transferred oversight of intrastate electricity matters from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission. By the end of the year, it had assumed full regulatory control of its electricity market, becoming the first Nigerian state to do so, officials said.
In a circular last year, NERC said state regulators would oversee intrastate electricity matters, while it would retain responsibility for interstate electricity transactions, national grid operations and industry standards.
Lagos has signed power purchase agreements with Fenchurch Power, Mainland Power and Viathan Engineering Limited to supply up to 400 MW to public facilities over three years.
"These are not business-as-usual PPAs," Ogunleye said. "They represent a fundamental shift in how Lagos procures and pays for power."
Lagos has scrapped "take-or-pay" and "deemed energy" provisions, which required payments even when power was not delivered, and will instead pay only for metered electricity supplied, officials said.
Analysts said state-level power markets could improve reliability but would not remove constraints including gas supply, foreign exchange exposure, affordability, transmission bottlenecks and weak technical capacity.
"Capital is available, but revenue assurance is a problem," said Bola Adigun, a partner at Deloitte Nigeria.
Friday, April 24, 2026
President Tinubu seeks parliament's approval for $516 million highway loan
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has asked parliament to approve a $516 million foreign loan to help finance the first sections of a new national highway, a major transport corridor linking the country's northwest to its southwest.
In a letter read by the Senate's president during a plenary session on Thursday, Tinubu said the government was seeking approval for the syndicated financing facility from Deutsche Bank, adding the loan was part of the government's medium-term borrowing plan approved by lawmakers.
The loan would have a nine-year tenor, including up to three years' grace, Tinubu said in the letter.
The roughly 1,000-km (600-mile) highway will link Sokoto state, in Nigeria's northwest, through the central Niger and Kwara states to the coastal town of Badagry in Lagos, the commercial capital.
Tinubu said the highway would deepen north–south links, cut travel times and haulage costs, lift trade and food security, and bolster national integration.
Last year, Nigeria raised a $747 million syndicated loan, led by Deutsche Bank, to fund the first phase of a planned 700-km (435-mile) coastal highway.
By Camillus Eboh, Reuters
In a letter read by the Senate's president during a plenary session on Thursday, Tinubu said the government was seeking approval for the syndicated financing facility from Deutsche Bank, adding the loan was part of the government's medium-term borrowing plan approved by lawmakers.
The loan would have a nine-year tenor, including up to three years' grace, Tinubu said in the letter.
The roughly 1,000-km (600-mile) highway will link Sokoto state, in Nigeria's northwest, through the central Niger and Kwara states to the coastal town of Badagry in Lagos, the commercial capital.
Tinubu said the highway would deepen north–south links, cut travel times and haulage costs, lift trade and food security, and bolster national integration.
Last year, Nigeria raised a $747 million syndicated loan, led by Deutsche Bank, to fund the first phase of a planned 700-km (435-mile) coastal highway.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Nigeria becomes net petrol exporter for first time in decades as Dangote refinery scales up
Nigeria has become a net exporter of petrol for the first time in decades, marking a turning point for a country long defined by its dependence on imported fuel despite being Africa’s largest oil producer.
The shift, recorded in March 2026, was driven by rising output from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which is rapidly transforming the country’s downstream oil market.
Data from energy intelligence firm Kpler shows Nigeria exported about 44,000 barrels per day (bpd) of petrol during the month, slightly exceeding imports and leaving a net surplus of roughly 3,000 bpd.
It is a symbolic and economic milestone. For years, Nigeria relied heavily on fuel imports due to underperforming state refineries, a system that drained foreign exchange and exposed the economy to global supply shocks.
That dynamic is now changing.
Crude supply to the 650,000 bpd Dangote refinery rose to about 565,000 bpd in March, one of its highest levels since operations began in late 2023. At the same time, petrol imports fell sharply to around 41,000 bpd, the lowest level ever recorded.
The figures point to a rapid replacement of imports with domestic refining.
Beyond reducing import dependence, the refinery is also expanding Nigeria’s reach into new markets. In March, it shipped a 317,000-barrel cargo of petrol to Mozambique, its first export to East Africa, with another cargo expected in April.
The move signals a broader shift in African fuel trade flows. East African countries, traditionally reliant on suppliers from the Middle East, are increasingly diversifying sources amid persistent global supply disruptions and shipping risks.
For Nigeria, the implications are significant.
Exporting petrol could help boost foreign exchange earnings while reducing demand for dollars previously used for imports, a key factor behind pressure on the naira in recent years. It also strengthens energy security by anchoring supply within the country.
At a global level, Nigeria’s entry into the export market could intensify competition, particularly in Europe where petrol supply is already ample.
The development reflects a deeper structural change: Nigeria is beginning to move from exporting crude and importing refined products to processing more of its oil domestically, a long-standing policy goal that has repeatedly failed in the past.
The Dangote refinery sits at the centre of that transition.
Its scale and rising utilisation are already reshaping expectations for the sector, with analysts pointing to potential gains in industrial activity, trade balance, and fiscal stability if output remains strong.
At the same time, the refinery’s owner, Aliko Dangote, is pursuing plans to list the business across multiple African stock exchanges in what could become the continent’s first pan-African initial public offering.
The proposed listing aims to attract investors across different countries and deepen cross-border capital flows, though analysts say execution will depend on regulatory alignment and currency stability.
For now, the export milestone offers the clearest signal yet that Nigeria’s long-troubled downstream oil sector may be entering a new phase, one defined less by scarcity and imports, and more by domestic capacity and regional influence.
The shift, recorded in March 2026, was driven by rising output from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which is rapidly transforming the country’s downstream oil market.
Data from energy intelligence firm Kpler shows Nigeria exported about 44,000 barrels per day (bpd) of petrol during the month, slightly exceeding imports and leaving a net surplus of roughly 3,000 bpd.
It is a symbolic and economic milestone. For years, Nigeria relied heavily on fuel imports due to underperforming state refineries, a system that drained foreign exchange and exposed the economy to global supply shocks.
That dynamic is now changing.
Crude supply to the 650,000 bpd Dangote refinery rose to about 565,000 bpd in March, one of its highest levels since operations began in late 2023. At the same time, petrol imports fell sharply to around 41,000 bpd, the lowest level ever recorded.
The figures point to a rapid replacement of imports with domestic refining.
Beyond reducing import dependence, the refinery is also expanding Nigeria’s reach into new markets. In March, it shipped a 317,000-barrel cargo of petrol to Mozambique, its first export to East Africa, with another cargo expected in April.
The move signals a broader shift in African fuel trade flows. East African countries, traditionally reliant on suppliers from the Middle East, are increasingly diversifying sources amid persistent global supply disruptions and shipping risks.
For Nigeria, the implications are significant.
Exporting petrol could help boost foreign exchange earnings while reducing demand for dollars previously used for imports, a key factor behind pressure on the naira in recent years. It also strengthens energy security by anchoring supply within the country.
At a global level, Nigeria’s entry into the export market could intensify competition, particularly in Europe where petrol supply is already ample.
The development reflects a deeper structural change: Nigeria is beginning to move from exporting crude and importing refined products to processing more of its oil domestically, a long-standing policy goal that has repeatedly failed in the past.
The Dangote refinery sits at the centre of that transition.
Its scale and rising utilisation are already reshaping expectations for the sector, with analysts pointing to potential gains in industrial activity, trade balance, and fiscal stability if output remains strong.
At the same time, the refinery’s owner, Aliko Dangote, is pursuing plans to list the business across multiple African stock exchanges in what could become the continent’s first pan-African initial public offering.
The proposed listing aims to attract investors across different countries and deepen cross-border capital flows, though analysts say execution will depend on regulatory alignment and currency stability.
For now, the export milestone offers the clearest signal yet that Nigeria’s long-troubled downstream oil sector may be entering a new phase, one defined less by scarcity and imports, and more by domestic capacity and regional influence.
By Ayodeji Adegboyega, Business Insider Africa
Related story: Dangote refinery hikes exports to ease Africa supply crunch
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Nigeria slips to 85th in global internet speed rankings as peers pull ahead
Nigeria’s expanding internet access is no longer translating into better online performance, as the country slipped to 85th place globally in internet speed, underscoring growing infrastructure pressure and a widening digital gap with regional peers.
According to the latest Speedtest Global Index by US-based research firm Ookla, Nigeria’s median mobile download speed stood at 44.14 Mbps by December 2025, down seven places from the previous ranking.
The report, which assessed mobile and fixed broadband performance across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), shows that while more Nigerians are online, network quality is struggling to keep pace with demand.
Within Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), only three countries made the global top-100 list: South Africa (64th), Kenya (80th), and Nigeria (85th). South Africa retained its regional lead despite dropping five places globally, posting a median mobile download speed of 65.7 Mbps, while Kenya recorded 45.37 Mbps.
The results highlight a growing contrast across the region. While Nigeria continues to face infrastructure bottlenecks, other African markets are making sharper gains through fibre expansion and network modernisation. Côte d’Ivoire, for instance, recorded the biggest improvement in SSA, climbing to 103rd globally with a median download speed of 58.17 Mbps, despite relatively low fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) coverage of between 15 percent and 19 per cent, according to Omdia.
Ookla noted that Côte d’Ivoire’s performance may be boosted by a user base concentrated on higher-speed connections, supported by competitive offerings such as Orange’s entry-level fixed broadband packages starting at 50 Mbps.
Elsewhere, Mauritania posted the largest ranking jump in SSA, rising 24 places to 106th globally after expanding its national backbone with 5,500 kilometres of fibre, with plans to add another 8,000 kilometres under its Digital Agenda 2022–2025.
Six SSA countries now rank within the global top-120, reflecting uneven but accelerating infrastructure investment across the continent.
South Africa remains unique in the region for its widespread use of wholesale-only fibre-to-the-premises networks, a model analysts say has helped improve competition and service quality.
Ookla said improvements in both fixed and mobile network performance typically result from a mix of network optimisation, architecture modernisation, technology upgrades, fibre expansion, commercial migration to higher-speed plans, quality-of-service regulation, and strategic policy support from governments and regulators.
While Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries continue to dominate the MEA rankings, Nigeria’s slide signals a more urgent challenge, in that, without faster, more resilient networks, gains in internet penetration risk delivering diminishing economic returns, especially for digital services, fintech, remote work, and online education.
For Africa’s largest internet market, the message is that connecting more users is no longer enough, speed now matters just as much.
By Royal Ibeh, Business Day
According to the latest Speedtest Global Index by US-based research firm Ookla, Nigeria’s median mobile download speed stood at 44.14 Mbps by December 2025, down seven places from the previous ranking.
The report, which assessed mobile and fixed broadband performance across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), shows that while more Nigerians are online, network quality is struggling to keep pace with demand.
Within Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), only three countries made the global top-100 list: South Africa (64th), Kenya (80th), and Nigeria (85th). South Africa retained its regional lead despite dropping five places globally, posting a median mobile download speed of 65.7 Mbps, while Kenya recorded 45.37 Mbps.
The results highlight a growing contrast across the region. While Nigeria continues to face infrastructure bottlenecks, other African markets are making sharper gains through fibre expansion and network modernisation. Côte d’Ivoire, for instance, recorded the biggest improvement in SSA, climbing to 103rd globally with a median download speed of 58.17 Mbps, despite relatively low fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) coverage of between 15 percent and 19 per cent, according to Omdia.
Ookla noted that Côte d’Ivoire’s performance may be boosted by a user base concentrated on higher-speed connections, supported by competitive offerings such as Orange’s entry-level fixed broadband packages starting at 50 Mbps.
Elsewhere, Mauritania posted the largest ranking jump in SSA, rising 24 places to 106th globally after expanding its national backbone with 5,500 kilometres of fibre, with plans to add another 8,000 kilometres under its Digital Agenda 2022–2025.
Six SSA countries now rank within the global top-120, reflecting uneven but accelerating infrastructure investment across the continent.
South Africa remains unique in the region for its widespread use of wholesale-only fibre-to-the-premises networks, a model analysts say has helped improve competition and service quality.
Ookla said improvements in both fixed and mobile network performance typically result from a mix of network optimisation, architecture modernisation, technology upgrades, fibre expansion, commercial migration to higher-speed plans, quality-of-service regulation, and strategic policy support from governments and regulators.
While Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries continue to dominate the MEA rankings, Nigeria’s slide signals a more urgent challenge, in that, without faster, more resilient networks, gains in internet penetration risk delivering diminishing economic returns, especially for digital services, fintech, remote work, and online education.
For Africa’s largest internet market, the message is that connecting more users is no longer enough, speed now matters just as much.
Thursday, February 5, 2026
Nigeria turns to China to help fix its broken refineries
Nigeria's state-owned oil company, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), recently revealed its plans to partner with a Chinese company to rehabilitate its dilapidated oil refineries.
This new development was disclosed by the NNPC’s chief, Bayo Ojulari, who also relayed that the group has established a plan to invite refinery operators with proven experience rather than contractors.
"I'm just coming from a meeting with one of the potential investors," Ojulari said, without giving a name.
"They are going to the refinery tomorrow to inspect. It's a Chinese company that has one of the biggest petrochemical plants in China."
The NNPC head stated that operations in the refineries had been put on hold to give time to evaluate potential restoration solutions.
This coincided with the opening of the Dangote Refinery, which provided "breathing space" for the supply of domestic petroleum, as seen on Reuters.
According to him, NNPC would give partners a share of its equity rather than selling the refineries so that the facilities could finance themselves.
In November, however, Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, disclosed that the West African country was open to the idea of selling the refineries.
Selling them is now “one of the options” under consideration, Olu Verheijen stated.
This new development was disclosed by the NNPC’s chief, Bayo Ojulari, who also relayed that the group has established a plan to invite refinery operators with proven experience rather than contractors.
"I'm just coming from a meeting with one of the potential investors," Ojulari said, without giving a name.
"They are going to the refinery tomorrow to inspect. It's a Chinese company that has one of the biggest petrochemical plants in China."
The NNPC head stated that operations in the refineries had been put on hold to give time to evaluate potential restoration solutions.
This coincided with the opening of the Dangote Refinery, which provided "breathing space" for the supply of domestic petroleum, as seen on Reuters.
According to him, NNPC would give partners a share of its equity rather than selling the refineries so that the facilities could finance themselves.
In November, however, Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, disclosed that the West African country was open to the idea of selling the refineries.
Selling them is now “one of the options” under consideration, Olu Verheijen stated.
Debacle with Nigeria’s state-owned oil refineries
For the past two years, the energy group has unsuccessfully attempted to fully reactivate three of its primary oil refineries in Warri, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt.
These endeavors to restore the facilities to operational status have resulted in both public controversy and shifts in strategic direction.
The government initially sought to rehabilitate these refineries, primarily in response to the commissioning of Dangote's 650,000-barrel-per-day oil refinery; however, this effort proved unsuccessful, necessitating an exploration of potential public-private partnerships.
Subsequently, in October 2025, the NNPC announced its search for new technical private equity partners to facilitate the revival of its long-dormant refineries.
The company’s three refineries have a combined processing capacity of 445,000 barrels per day but have remained idle for decades, forcing the country to rely almost entirely on imported fuel, and much more recently, on the Dangote refinery.
This was despite heavy investments to modernize the three oil refineries.
Nigeria’s oil refinery scandal
In May 2025, reports indicated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria's corruption watchdog, had launched a full-scale investigation into a $2.9 billion refinery rehabilitation fund fraud, revealing almost ₦80 billion in accounts related to the Managing Director of one of the refineries, who at the time was just laid off.
Several NNPCL executives, including former GCEO Mele Kyari, have since then been monitored very closely.
The agency requested that NNPCL furnish certified copies of the listed officers' emoluments and allowances, including retirees.
Theyalso requested confirmation of the names of 13 former top officials, including Abubakar Yar'Adua, Isiaka Abdulrazak, Umar Ajiya, Dikko Ahmed, Ademoye Jelili, Mustapha Sugungun, Kayode Adetokunbo, Efiok Akpan, Babatunde Bakare, Jimoh Olasunkanmi, Bello Kankaya, and Desmond Inyama.
Nigeria's engagement with Chinese collaborators underscores the necessity of addressing its persistent refinery challenges as the nation seeks to achieve enhanced self-sufficiency in fuel.
While the Dangote Refinery has alleviated immediate supply constraints, the future of Nigeria's state-owned refineries remains uncertain, with options ranging from equity partnerships to outright divestment remaining on the table.
For the past two years, the energy group has unsuccessfully attempted to fully reactivate three of its primary oil refineries in Warri, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt.
These endeavors to restore the facilities to operational status have resulted in both public controversy and shifts in strategic direction.
The government initially sought to rehabilitate these refineries, primarily in response to the commissioning of Dangote's 650,000-barrel-per-day oil refinery; however, this effort proved unsuccessful, necessitating an exploration of potential public-private partnerships.
Subsequently, in October 2025, the NNPC announced its search for new technical private equity partners to facilitate the revival of its long-dormant refineries.
The company’s three refineries have a combined processing capacity of 445,000 barrels per day but have remained idle for decades, forcing the country to rely almost entirely on imported fuel, and much more recently, on the Dangote refinery.
This was despite heavy investments to modernize the three oil refineries.
Nigeria’s oil refinery scandal
In May 2025, reports indicated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria's corruption watchdog, had launched a full-scale investigation into a $2.9 billion refinery rehabilitation fund fraud, revealing almost ₦80 billion in accounts related to the Managing Director of one of the refineries, who at the time was just laid off.
Several NNPCL executives, including former GCEO Mele Kyari, have since then been monitored very closely.
The agency requested that NNPCL furnish certified copies of the listed officers' emoluments and allowances, including retirees.
Theyalso requested confirmation of the names of 13 former top officials, including Abubakar Yar'Adua, Isiaka Abdulrazak, Umar Ajiya, Dikko Ahmed, Ademoye Jelili, Mustapha Sugungun, Kayode Adetokunbo, Efiok Akpan, Babatunde Bakare, Jimoh Olasunkanmi, Bello Kankaya, and Desmond Inyama.
Nigeria's engagement with Chinese collaborators underscores the necessity of addressing its persistent refinery challenges as the nation seeks to achieve enhanced self-sufficiency in fuel.
While the Dangote Refinery has alleviated immediate supply constraints, the future of Nigeria's state-owned refineries remains uncertain, with options ranging from equity partnerships to outright divestment remaining on the table.
By Chinedu Okafor, Business Insider Africa
Friday, January 23, 2026
The Nigerian Government Destroys Orphanage in Makoko
This is an emergency situation, please consider donating here:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helpsavemakoko
This video is about the horrific actions taken by the Nigerian government. Without warning, they moved into Nigeria’s largest slum and began indiscriminately destroying homes, schools, churches, a hospital and even an orphanage that we previously fundraised for on this channel and built.
Right now, children are sleeping rough. Families have nowhere safe to stay but with your help today, we can start rebuilding Makoko in a new, safer location.
The people of Makoko truly need your support.
If you’re able to donate, it would mean the world and make a real, immediate difference. If you’re not in a position to give, I completely understand. even sharing this campaign can go a long way.
All donations are given freely and will be passed directly to support rebuilding efforts in Nigeria. I do not personally profit from this fundraiser.
Thank you for being here, and thank you for caring.
This is an emergency situation, please consider donating: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helpsavemakoko
Related story: 200 homeless after demolition of Makoko slum in Lagos
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Africa’s largest plastic recycler plans $60m mega plant to process 100,000 tonnes of waste in Nigeria
The new plant, which will be developed in phases, is expected to begin operations by the end of March 2026, with full commissioning scheduled for July 2026.
Once completed, the facility will significantly scale up Nigeria’s capacity to process post-consumer plastic waste into high-quality recycled materials, including food-grade recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET).
The investment positions Polysmart among Africa’s most ambitious private-sector players in sustainable manufacturing, at a time when governments and multinational brands are under growing pressure to cut plastic pollution and carbon emissions.
According to the company, the facility will be equipped with world-class recycling technologies, including systems from Sorema and Tomra, as well as two Erema Vacunite units. These will enable the processing of multiple polymer streams, producing rPET resin and flakes that meet the standards of the European Food Safety Authority and the United States Food and Drug Administration, as well as non-food-grade HDPE, LDPE, and polypropylene materials.
“This is a transformative moment for Nigeria’s green economy,” said Wasiu Abolaji Balogun, managing director and chief executive of Polysmart Packaging Limited.
He described the $60 million investment as a commitment not only to infrastructure and technology but also to people, adding that the expansion is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across waste collection, sorting, technical, and operational segments of the value chain.
At full capacity, the plant will process up to 100,000 tonnes of mixed plastics annually, making it the largest of its kind in the region.
Polysmart’s $60m investment could recycle 5.5 billion plastic bottles a year in Nigeria
Polysmart estimates that the expanded facilities could recover and recycle more than 5.5 billion PET bottles every year, diverting vast volumes of plastic waste from landfills, drainage systems, and waterways.
A major strategic goal of the project is import substitution. By producing certified food-grade rPET locally, Polysmart aims to supply a critical raw material to Nigeria’s food, beverage, and fast-moving consumer goods industries, reducing their reliance on imported virgin plastics and easing pressure on foreign exchange demand.
The company says the expansion will also contribute to a significant reduction in Nigeria’s dependence on virgin plastics derived from crude oil. By replacing them with high-quality recycled alternatives, Polysmart positions the project as a step towards a more sustainable manufacturing ecosystem.
From an environmental, social, and governance perspective, the new plant is projected to deliver carbon savings of up to 170,000 tonnes based on its planned capacity. These gains come from lower energy use, reduced emissions, and the reintegration of plastic waste into the production cycle.
Polysmart said it is working closely with federal and state environmental agencies to ensure the facility meets global safety and environmental protection standards.
Industry observers say the scale of the investment could strengthen Nigeria’s ambition to become a regional hub for green technology and sustainable manufacturing.
As plastic pollution continues to pose a growing challenge across Africa, projects of this scale are increasingly viewed as critical to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Polysmart estimates that the expanded facilities could recover and recycle more than 5.5 billion PET bottles every year, diverting vast volumes of plastic waste from landfills, drainage systems, and waterways.
A major strategic goal of the project is import substitution. By producing certified food-grade rPET locally, Polysmart aims to supply a critical raw material to Nigeria’s food, beverage, and fast-moving consumer goods industries, reducing their reliance on imported virgin plastics and easing pressure on foreign exchange demand.
The company says the expansion will also contribute to a significant reduction in Nigeria’s dependence on virgin plastics derived from crude oil. By replacing them with high-quality recycled alternatives, Polysmart positions the project as a step towards a more sustainable manufacturing ecosystem.
From an environmental, social, and governance perspective, the new plant is projected to deliver carbon savings of up to 170,000 tonnes based on its planned capacity. These gains come from lower energy use, reduced emissions, and the reintegration of plastic waste into the production cycle.
Polysmart said it is working closely with federal and state environmental agencies to ensure the facility meets global safety and environmental protection standards.
Industry observers say the scale of the investment could strengthen Nigeria’s ambition to become a regional hub for green technology and sustainable manufacturing.
As plastic pollution continues to pose a growing challenge across Africa, projects of this scale are increasingly viewed as critical to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
By Segun Adeyemi, Business Insider Africa
Monday, January 19, 2026
Nigeria emerges top Belt and Road beneficiary with China-backed $24.6bn GRIP megaproject
Nigeria has emerged as the largest single beneficiary of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2025 following an estimated $24.6 billion construction commitment linked to the Ogidigben Gas Revolution Industrial Park (GRIP) in Delta State, marking one of the biggest China-backed infrastructure deals in Africa this year.
GRIP is a flagship gas-based industrialisation project designed to transform Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves into higher-value products, including petrochemicals, fertilisers, methanol and refined fuels.
The industrial park is expected to anchor multiple downstream industries, supported by new gas processing plants, pipelines, power infrastructure and export facilities, much of which is being delivered by Chinese engineering and construction firms under the BRI framework.
According to Christoph Nedopil Wang, a China energy and finance expert at Griffith University, this deal highlights a broader trend in Beijing’s BRI strategy, which increasingly focuses on fewer but high-value projects tied to energy and industrial infrastructure.
Nedopil notes that Nigeria’s GRIP-related contracts alone accounted for roughly $20 billion of China’s 2025 construction activity in Africa, making the country the continent’s largest BRI construction recipient and a strategic hub for China’s long-term energy engagement.
The scale of the deal places Nigeria at the centre of China’s recalibrated Africa strategy, which is shifting away from smaller, dispersed projects toward fewer, capital-intensive investments tied to energy security and long-term industrial value.
With Africa’s largest gas reserves and a large domestic market, Nigeria offers Beijing both commercial viability and strategic depth in West Africa.
GRIP is a flagship gas-based industrialisation project designed to transform Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves into higher-value products, including petrochemicals, fertilisers, methanol and refined fuels.
The industrial park is expected to anchor multiple downstream industries, supported by new gas processing plants, pipelines, power infrastructure and export facilities, much of which is being delivered by Chinese engineering and construction firms under the BRI framework.
According to Christoph Nedopil Wang, a China energy and finance expert at Griffith University, this deal highlights a broader trend in Beijing’s BRI strategy, which increasingly focuses on fewer but high-value projects tied to energy and industrial infrastructure.
Nedopil notes that Nigeria’s GRIP-related contracts alone accounted for roughly $20 billion of China’s 2025 construction activity in Africa, making the country the continent’s largest BRI construction recipient and a strategic hub for China’s long-term energy engagement.
The scale of the deal places Nigeria at the centre of China’s recalibrated Africa strategy, which is shifting away from smaller, dispersed projects toward fewer, capital-intensive investments tied to energy security and long-term industrial value.
With Africa’s largest gas reserves and a large domestic market, Nigeria offers Beijing both commercial viability and strategic depth in West Africa.
Terror challenges mar early development
Despite its strong fundamentals, GRIP’s early development was stalled by serious security challenges.
Long-standing tensions between the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities resurfaced, leading to violent rivalries and the emergence of armed groups around the project site in 2018.
During the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, threats and alleged financial demands of about $30 million reportedly forced authorities to delay the project’s groundbreaking, severely undermining investor confidence.
Saudi-linked investors who had shown interest in the project are reported to have withdrawn, citing concerns over security and the influence of non-state actors.
As a result, Ogidigben fell dormant for years, becoming a cautionary example of how insecurity in the Niger Delta can derail large-scale energy investments, despite their national economic importance.
Despite its strong fundamentals, GRIP’s early development was stalled by serious security challenges.
Long-standing tensions between the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities resurfaced, leading to violent rivalries and the emergence of armed groups around the project site in 2018.
During the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, threats and alleged financial demands of about $30 million reportedly forced authorities to delay the project’s groundbreaking, severely undermining investor confidence.
Saudi-linked investors who had shown interest in the project are reported to have withdrawn, citing concerns over security and the influence of non-state actors.
As a result, Ogidigben fell dormant for years, becoming a cautionary example of how insecurity in the Niger Delta can derail large-scale energy investments, despite their national economic importance.
Why GRIP matters for Nigeria and China
For Nigeria, GRIP represents a critical pillar of its long-term plan to reduce dependence on crude oil exports, curb gas flaring and build a competitive gas-driven manufacturing base. The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs, stimulate industrial growth in the Niger Delta and boost export revenues once operational.
For China, backing GRIP strengthens access to a major gas-producing economy while reinforcing its economic footprint in a region where competition with Western and Gulf partners is intensifying. It also reflects Beijing’s growing preference for projects with clear revenue potential rather than sovereign-funded public works.
However, the scale of Chinese involvement is likely to revive debates around debt sustainability, transparency and local content.
Nigerian authorities face pressure to ensure the GRIP investment delivers long-term economic value, technology transfer and inclusive growth, rather than adding to fiscal strain.
If successfully executed, GRIP could redefine Nigeria’s industrial landscape and stand as one of the most consequential Belt and Road projects on the African continent.
For Nigeria, GRIP represents a critical pillar of its long-term plan to reduce dependence on crude oil exports, curb gas flaring and build a competitive gas-driven manufacturing base. The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs, stimulate industrial growth in the Niger Delta and boost export revenues once operational.
For China, backing GRIP strengthens access to a major gas-producing economy while reinforcing its economic footprint in a region where competition with Western and Gulf partners is intensifying. It also reflects Beijing’s growing preference for projects with clear revenue potential rather than sovereign-funded public works.
However, the scale of Chinese involvement is likely to revive debates around debt sustainability, transparency and local content.
Nigerian authorities face pressure to ensure the GRIP investment delivers long-term economic value, technology transfer and inclusive growth, rather than adding to fiscal strain.
If successfully executed, GRIP could redefine Nigeria’s industrial landscape and stand as one of the most consequential Belt and Road projects on the African continent.
By Solomon Ekanem, Business Insider Africa
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Nigeria's drive to build a digital economy faces major setbacks
Nigeria’s ambition to build a digital economy is facing a major hurdle as the country grapples with cuts, vandalism, and access disputes. This has triggered thousands of network outages, slowing broadband growth, disrupting businesses, raising concerns over the country's digital future.
Amazon Wins Nigeria Satellite Internet License, Challenging Starlink’s Dominance
Nigeria has opened its satellite broadband market to a new global player. Amazon secured a seven-year landing permit from the Nigerian Communications Commission, allowing Project Kuiper to launch internet services in the country from February 2026. The decision supports Nigeria’s strategy to diversify connectivity infrastructure and attract next-generation technology investment.
“The approval aligns with global best practices and reflects Nigeria’s commitment to opening its satellite communications market to next-generation broadband service providers,” the NCC said, highlighting the strategic importance of the authorization amid rising demand for connectivity.
The license allows Amazon Kuiper to operate its space segment in Nigeria as part of a global low-Earth-orbit constellation of up to 3,236 satellites. The authorization covers fixed satellite services, mobile satellite services, and earth stations in motion. These services target households, businesses, mobility use cases, logistics, aviation, maritime transport, and critical infrastructure.
Amazon’s entry ends Starlink’s quasi-exclusive dominance of Nigeria’s LEO satellite internet market. Starlink benefited from a first-mover advantage and built an estimated base of more than 66,000 subscribers. Kuiper’s arrival introduces direct competition between two global players with large financial, technological, and industrial resources. That rivalry could reshape pricing, service quality, and coverage.
From a technical standpoint, the authorization covers operations in the Ka frequency band, which supports high data transmission capacity. Amazon plans to use 100-MHz channels and deliver speeds of up to 400 Mbps while keeping terminal costs compatible with mass adoption. These features strengthen satellite broadband as a credible alternative to terrestrial networks, including in urban and semi-urban areas.
Nigeria represents a strategic market for Amazon. The country still faces major connectivity gaps despite its large population. According to the NCC, more than 23 million Nigerians live in unserved or underserved areas, while mobile broadband penetration reached 50.58% in November 2025. In that context, LEO satellites, which offer low latency, support advanced digital uses ranging from cloud computing to digital financial services.
Beyond households, Kuiper’s services could meet demand from businesses in oil and gas, mining, ports, and logistics corridors, where fiber deployment remains costly or technically complex. Amazon, which renamed Project Kuiper as Amazon LEO in November 2025, plans to leverage integration with Amazon Web Services to bundle connectivity with cloud services.
With this authorization, Nigeria strengthens its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic satellite broadband markets. Increased competition among LEO operators should gradually improve internet speed, affordability, and resilience, benefiting consumers, businesses, and Nigeria’s digital economy.
“The approval aligns with global best practices and reflects Nigeria’s commitment to opening its satellite communications market to next-generation broadband service providers,” the NCC said, highlighting the strategic importance of the authorization amid rising demand for connectivity.
The license allows Amazon Kuiper to operate its space segment in Nigeria as part of a global low-Earth-orbit constellation of up to 3,236 satellites. The authorization covers fixed satellite services, mobile satellite services, and earth stations in motion. These services target households, businesses, mobility use cases, logistics, aviation, maritime transport, and critical infrastructure.
Amazon’s entry ends Starlink’s quasi-exclusive dominance of Nigeria’s LEO satellite internet market. Starlink benefited from a first-mover advantage and built an estimated base of more than 66,000 subscribers. Kuiper’s arrival introduces direct competition between two global players with large financial, technological, and industrial resources. That rivalry could reshape pricing, service quality, and coverage.
From a technical standpoint, the authorization covers operations in the Ka frequency band, which supports high data transmission capacity. Amazon plans to use 100-MHz channels and deliver speeds of up to 400 Mbps while keeping terminal costs compatible with mass adoption. These features strengthen satellite broadband as a credible alternative to terrestrial networks, including in urban and semi-urban areas.
Nigeria represents a strategic market for Amazon. The country still faces major connectivity gaps despite its large population. According to the NCC, more than 23 million Nigerians live in unserved or underserved areas, while mobile broadband penetration reached 50.58% in November 2025. In that context, LEO satellites, which offer low latency, support advanced digital uses ranging from cloud computing to digital financial services.
Beyond households, Kuiper’s services could meet demand from businesses in oil and gas, mining, ports, and logistics corridors, where fiber deployment remains costly or technically complex. Amazon, which renamed Project Kuiper as Amazon LEO in November 2025, plans to leverage integration with Amazon Web Services to bundle connectivity with cloud services.
With this authorization, Nigeria strengthens its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic satellite broadband markets. Increased competition among LEO operators should gradually improve internet speed, affordability, and resilience, benefiting consumers, businesses, and Nigeria’s digital economy.
By Samira Njoya, wearetech.africa
Monday, January 12, 2026
Africa’s megacity of Lagos reshapes its coast by dredging and puts environment at risk
LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — Beneath an eight-lane expressway, Nigerian men stand waist-deep in the Lagos Lagoon, lowering buckets into murky water. Each load brings up sand, reshaping the coastline of Africa’s largest city and driving away fish and livelihoods for some of its poorest people.
Not far from the bridge, wooden boats are loaded with sand. One of thousands of local dredgers, Akeem Sossu, 34, has been diving for sand for at least three years. He slips beneath the surface for about 15 seconds at a time, hauling up bucketloads bound for construction sites.
Akeem said he and his partner earn about 12,000 naira ($8) each per boatload, selling to a middleman who supplies larger buyers. Filling a boat takes about three hours. Formerly a tailor, he said dredging now supports his household.
“I come out early, sometimes 5 a.m. or 6 a.m., depending on the tide,” he said.
Dredgers and local traders say the price of sand, crucial for making concrete, has risen steadily as development in Lagos has accelerated. A standard 30-ton truckload of what’s known as sharp sand — coarse and gritty — now sells for about 290,000 naira, or roughly $202, reflecting strong demand.
The changes to the lagoon that buffers the megacity of about 17 million people are unmistakable. What was once an open stretch of water is increasingly broken up by sandy patches, narrowing channels and reshaping currents that support thousands of fishermen.
The transformation is most visible near Makoko, one of Lagos’ oldest fishing communities. Dredging barges operate close to homes built on stilts, while reclaimed land and construction of upscale beachfront properties press in from the edges. Residents say the encroachment has destroyed fishing grounds and put many out of work.
Nearby, fishermen wait for the day’s dredging to pause. They say that when it does, even briefly, some fish return.
Not far from the bridge, wooden boats are loaded with sand. One of thousands of local dredgers, Akeem Sossu, 34, has been diving for sand for at least three years. He slips beneath the surface for about 15 seconds at a time, hauling up bucketloads bound for construction sites.
Akeem said he and his partner earn about 12,000 naira ($8) each per boatload, selling to a middleman who supplies larger buyers. Filling a boat takes about three hours. Formerly a tailor, he said dredging now supports his household.
“I come out early, sometimes 5 a.m. or 6 a.m., depending on the tide,” he said.
Dredgers and local traders say the price of sand, crucial for making concrete, has risen steadily as development in Lagos has accelerated. A standard 30-ton truckload of what’s known as sharp sand — coarse and gritty — now sells for about 290,000 naira, or roughly $202, reflecting strong demand.
The changes to the lagoon that buffers the megacity of about 17 million people are unmistakable. What was once an open stretch of water is increasingly broken up by sandy patches, narrowing channels and reshaping currents that support thousands of fishermen.
The transformation is most visible near Makoko, one of Lagos’ oldest fishing communities. Dredging barges operate close to homes built on stilts, while reclaimed land and construction of upscale beachfront properties press in from the edges. Residents say the encroachment has destroyed fishing grounds and put many out of work.
Nearby, fishermen wait for the day’s dredging to pause. They say that when it does, even briefly, some fish return.
A city built on sand
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic engine, is in constant construction. Roads, bridges and housing estates are rising daily on reclaimed waterfronts as the city’s rich displace many of its poor.
Over the past five years, dozens of registered dredging firms and numerous informal operators have sprung up or increased their operations, extracting sand from rivers and coastal waters across Lagos State.
Industry analysts estimate the city consumes tens of millions of cubic meters of sand each year, an amount roughly equivalent to 16,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Lagoon sand is particularly prized by builders, who say it produces stronger concrete than sand that is dredged inland.
Fishermen and environmental researchers say the cost of that demand is increasingly visible in the water.
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic engine, is in constant construction. Roads, bridges and housing estates are rising daily on reclaimed waterfronts as the city’s rich displace many of its poor.
Over the past five years, dozens of registered dredging firms and numerous informal operators have sprung up or increased their operations, extracting sand from rivers and coastal waters across Lagos State.
Industry analysts estimate the city consumes tens of millions of cubic meters of sand each year, an amount roughly equivalent to 16,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Lagoon sand is particularly prized by builders, who say it produces stronger concrete than sand that is dredged inland.
Fishermen and environmental researchers say the cost of that demand is increasingly visible in the water.
Driving fish away
“We are not powerful,” said a community leader of Makoko, Baale Semede Emmanuel. “Dredgers have spoiled the entire waters.”
Fishermen there say dredging has wiped out shallow areas where fish once spawned before moving into deeper waters. At times, fish are sucked through dredging pipes.
“Anywhere dredging is happening, there’s no fish,” Emmanuel said. “The noise drives them away. The places where they used to reproduce are gone.”
With catches shrinking, fishermen say they must travel farther offshore, increasing fuel costs and exposure to rougher seas. Some have stopped fishing altogether.
“We have no other work apart from fishing,” Emmanuel said. “If we don’t find fish, we will starve.”
“We are not powerful,” said a community leader of Makoko, Baale Semede Emmanuel. “Dredgers have spoiled the entire waters.”
Fishermen there say dredging has wiped out shallow areas where fish once spawned before moving into deeper waters. At times, fish are sucked through dredging pipes.
“Anywhere dredging is happening, there’s no fish,” Emmanuel said. “The noise drives them away. The places where they used to reproduce are gone.”
With catches shrinking, fishermen say they must travel farther offshore, increasing fuel costs and exposure to rougher seas. Some have stopped fishing altogether.
“We have no other work apart from fishing,” Emmanuel said. “If we don’t find fish, we will starve.”
Pushed from the water
For some fishermen, dredging has forced an uneasy shift away from the sea. Joshua Monday said he has largely parked his two fishing boats and now works as a mechanic.
He learned how to fix boat engines years ago as a backup.
“If not for this mechanic work, I don’t know how I would survive,” he said.
He said rising costs and shrinking catches have made fishing untenable. Fuel can cost more than 150,000 naira ($104) for a single trip, he said, with no guarantee of a return.
“Sometimes you go to the sea and come back with nothing,” he said. “All the fuel is gone.”
Meanwhile, he said, wealthy developers and other powerful interests are reclaiming land around Lagos while fishermen are pushed aside.
“Big men are stressing us,” Monday said. “When they come, you have no option. You pack your things and leave.” He now lives in another waterfront community under pressure, Sagbo-Koji.
For some fishermen, dredging has forced an uneasy shift away from the sea. Joshua Monday said he has largely parked his two fishing boats and now works as a mechanic.
He learned how to fix boat engines years ago as a backup.
“If not for this mechanic work, I don’t know how I would survive,” he said.
He said rising costs and shrinking catches have made fishing untenable. Fuel can cost more than 150,000 naira ($104) for a single trip, he said, with no guarantee of a return.
“Sometimes you go to the sea and come back with nothing,” he said. “All the fuel is gone.”
Meanwhile, he said, wealthy developers and other powerful interests are reclaiming land around Lagos while fishermen are pushed aside.
“Big men are stressing us,” Monday said. “When they come, you have no option. You pack your things and leave.” He now lives in another waterfront community under pressure, Sagbo-Koji.
Making money from sand
Dredgers say the work offers rare income in a city with limited opportunities.
“I’m a father of one,” said Joshua Alex, a dredging operator. “This is how I take care of myself.”
He explained how informal dredgers interact with authorities and pay their “dues” to stay in business.
“Marine Police will come, we settle them. NIWA will come, we settle them,” he said, referring to the National Inland Waterways Authority. He said the payments make the work legitimate.
Environmental advocates say such arrangements blur the line between legal and illegal dredging, allowing operators to resume work shortly after enforcement actions.
Government warnings, limited regulations
Lagos State officials, including Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have repeatedly pledged to clamp down on illegal dredging, especially operations that are blamed for worsening flooding, erosion and other environmental degradation along the coast.
The government says it has shut down sites operating without permits and strengthened monitoring through waterfront and environmental agencies. The Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development didn’t respond to questions.
But community leaders say enforcement is inconsistent, pointing to the payments by informal dredgers.
“When the government stops dredging activities today, they get paid, and then they ask them to resume activities,” said the Makoko community leader, Emmanuel.
He accused authorities of prioritizing revenue and private development over the survival of fishing communities, citing land allocations for real estate projects along the waterfront.
“The government has the power, not us,” he said.
Dredgers say the work offers rare income in a city with limited opportunities.
“I’m a father of one,” said Joshua Alex, a dredging operator. “This is how I take care of myself.”
He explained how informal dredgers interact with authorities and pay their “dues” to stay in business.
“Marine Police will come, we settle them. NIWA will come, we settle them,” he said, referring to the National Inland Waterways Authority. He said the payments make the work legitimate.
Environmental advocates say such arrangements blur the line between legal and illegal dredging, allowing operators to resume work shortly after enforcement actions.
Government warnings, limited regulations
Lagos State officials, including Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have repeatedly pledged to clamp down on illegal dredging, especially operations that are blamed for worsening flooding, erosion and other environmental degradation along the coast.
The government says it has shut down sites operating without permits and strengthened monitoring through waterfront and environmental agencies. The Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development didn’t respond to questions.
But community leaders say enforcement is inconsistent, pointing to the payments by informal dredgers.
“When the government stops dredging activities today, they get paid, and then they ask them to resume activities,” said the Makoko community leader, Emmanuel.
He accused authorities of prioritizing revenue and private development over the survival of fishing communities, citing land allocations for real estate projects along the waterfront.
“The government has the power, not us,” he said.
What the science says
Scientific research supports fishermen’s claims about the impacts of dredging in Lagos.
Peer-reviewed studies by Nigerian scholars conducted along the Ajah–Addo-Badore corridor, a major dredging zone east of Makoko, found water turbidity levels far above national safety standards, conditions that disrupt fish feeding, reproduction and migration.
Researchers also documented unstable seabeds and erosion-prone zones beneath dredging sites, and more stable conditions where dredging was absent. In some locations, groundwater samples showed bacterial contamination linked to human waste.
Scientists have warned that dredging reduces the lagoon’s ability to absorb floodwaters, increasing long-term risks for Lagos and its population. Wetlands and shallow lagoon areas act as natural buffers. When they are removed or destabilized, communities become more vulnerable.
Lagos has experienced increasingly severe flooding in recent years, with waterfront and low-lying neighborhoods among the hardest hit.
Scientific research supports fishermen’s claims about the impacts of dredging in Lagos.
Peer-reviewed studies by Nigerian scholars conducted along the Ajah–Addo-Badore corridor, a major dredging zone east of Makoko, found water turbidity levels far above national safety standards, conditions that disrupt fish feeding, reproduction and migration.
Researchers also documented unstable seabeds and erosion-prone zones beneath dredging sites, and more stable conditions where dredging was absent. In some locations, groundwater samples showed bacterial contamination linked to human waste.
Scientists have warned that dredging reduces the lagoon’s ability to absorb floodwaters, increasing long-term risks for Lagos and its population. Wetlands and shallow lagoon areas act as natural buffers. When they are removed or destabilized, communities become more vulnerable.
Lagos has experienced increasingly severe flooding in recent years, with waterfront and low-lying neighborhoods among the hardest hit.
By Grace Ekpu, AP
Monday, December 29, 2025
Nigeria's NNPC targets industrial boom in country's north as gas pipeline nears completion
Nigeria’s state oil company is betting on a long-delayed gas pipeline to ignite an industrial revolution in the country’s north, its chief executive said after briefing President Bola Tinubu on Sunday.
Bashir Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, told reporters that the company has completed welding the main line of the $2.8 billion Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline, including the critical River Niger crossing - a feat that has stalled progress for years. The milestone clears the way for connecting the pipeline early next year, a move Ojulari says will “bring gas in its full form into the northern part of Nigeria.”
“This is not just about energy,” Ojulari said. “It’s about industrialisation - fertiliser plants, power generation, and gas-based industries in Kaduna, Kano, Abuja, and Ajaokuta. We expect to see industrial parks spring up.”
The AKK pipeline, first conceived in 2008, is central to Nigeria’s ambition to leverage its vast gas reserves for economic growth. Its completion could transform the north, where chronic power shortages and a lack of energy infrastructure have stifled manufacturing for decades.
Ojulari also revealed NNPC’s production targets: oil output is expected to rise to 1.8 million barrels per day in 2026, up from about 1.7 million this year, while gas production will continue to climb. He credited structural reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act for enabling NNPC to operate as a profit-driven company, no longer reliant on federal allocations.
Ojulari said PresidentTinubu reaffirmed his push for $30 billion in new investments by 2030 and oil output of 2 million barrels per day by 2027.
By Camillus Eboh, Reuters
Bashir Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, told reporters that the company has completed welding the main line of the $2.8 billion Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline, including the critical River Niger crossing - a feat that has stalled progress for years. The milestone clears the way for connecting the pipeline early next year, a move Ojulari says will “bring gas in its full form into the northern part of Nigeria.”
“This is not just about energy,” Ojulari said. “It’s about industrialisation - fertiliser plants, power generation, and gas-based industries in Kaduna, Kano, Abuja, and Ajaokuta. We expect to see industrial parks spring up.”
The AKK pipeline, first conceived in 2008, is central to Nigeria’s ambition to leverage its vast gas reserves for economic growth. Its completion could transform the north, where chronic power shortages and a lack of energy infrastructure have stifled manufacturing for decades.
Ojulari also revealed NNPC’s production targets: oil output is expected to rise to 1.8 million barrels per day in 2026, up from about 1.7 million this year, while gas production will continue to climb. He credited structural reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act for enabling NNPC to operate as a profit-driven company, no longer reliant on federal allocations.
Ojulari said PresidentTinubu reaffirmed his push for $30 billion in new investments by 2030 and oil output of 2 million barrels per day by 2027.
Monday, December 15, 2025
Nigeria grows strawberries, but poor infrastructure keeps them from markets
As early as 5am, farmers in rural Vom in Jos Plateau state set out to their strawberry farms. With torchlights strapped to their foreheads, they pick the delicate berries while the air is still cool. The earlier they are done picking, the earlier the trucks can move. Strawberries are at their best when cold, and any delay risks bruising or rot.
But once the berries leave the farm, the real problem begins.
After a careful harvest, the journey out of the farm to the big city buyers is precarious. With no direct flights, farmers rely entirely on road transport to reach markets. What leaves the farm vibrant and firm often arrives softened, leaking, or outright unsellable.
Nigeria’s strawberry production is relatively infantile. Official production figures are unavailable publicly but market report from intelligence company, Essfeed shows that Nigeria produces around 3,000 tons of strawberries annually. The industry is valued at approximately $2 million, with local markets being the primary focus.
Tridge, a market intelligence company reports that strawberry harvest season in Nigeria begins to peak in December with over 70 percent of total production coming from Chaha district in Vom, Jos South Local Government of Plateau State.
The berry’s derivative is used in jams, smoothies, parfaits and fruit juices, and is also consumed directly.
Yet those in the business are meeting the season with more worry than excitement.
Bwai Grace, a local produce procurer in Jos, told BusinessDay that gaps in logistics and other infrastructure have “seriously” weakened demand. She now struggles to meet orders from Maiduguri, Katsina and even parts of Port Harcourt reachable only by rough roads.
With no cargo flights, farmers typically loaded their strawberries onto passenger planes, hoping the boxes are kept near the air conditioner. But when airlines such as Arik and Max Air halted flights to Plateau State, the chain collapsed, leaving them stranded and scrambling for improvised road transport.
“For years, Arik was the only lifeline. We paid more per kg in air cargo than we paid farmers per kg of produce. Logistics cost more than the fruit, and we still paid for it, because at least the berries arrived fresh and wholesome across the country,” said Deola Balogun, chief operating officer at Limlim Foods Production Ltd in a LinkedIn post.
“But overnight, it collapsed, Arik stopped flying into Jos in October. ValueJet is now the only carrier flying out from Jos, and they refused to carry strawberries,” Balogun added.
Grace explained the alternative. “I have someone with a deep freezer that uses an inverter. I wash the strawberry very well with water level at 11.5 pH to preserve the taste, then freeze them in kilos and cover with styrofoam so it doesn’t drip,” she said.
Her efforts could only do so much. Long hours on hot, uneven roads stress the fruit and a breakdown or checkpoint delay thins the line between a marketable carton and a total loss. “The weather outside Jos is really hot. And once you start changing the environment, the food will start becoming stressed and struggle to breathe,” she said.
Many of the cartons of strawberries eventually arrive “not looking like food” and clients demand refunds.
“At some point last year, in February, I had to even close business for a very long time. I just told them, let me just travel and clear my head,” she said.
Balogun also recounted losing 20 to 30 percent of her produce due to checkpoint delays and rough roads that broke the boxes.
“Road is not a solution today. It’s a controlled disaster. We’re not losing strawberries because farmers don’t know how to grow them, we’re losing them because a berry’s entire value chain depended on a plane we didn’t control,” she said.
Hopi Afrique, a Nigerian farm produce business based in Jos, does not hide the vulnerability. Under its listing on Flutterwave, it wrote boldly, “Some of your strawberries will bruise or melt in transit.”
According to Tridge, Nigerian strawberries are currently sold at $3.64 per kg in wholesale markets. Grace said she sells her strawberries sell for N18,000 per 5kg.
Hopi Afrique estimates a carton at roughly 5.5kg, which means losing even ten boxes wipes out close to N200,000 in addition to transportation costs.
Plugging the gap
The gap in prices ultimately tilts the market towards imports, keeping Nigeria on a costly cycle of bringing in the very strawberries it already grows.
In 2023, the country spent up N600million to import fresh strawberries, 80 percent of which came from Niger, according to data from The World Bank and the United Nations. South Africa, Belgium, Denmark were other major sources.
“If Plateau produces approximately 700 tons this season and we lose 50 percent due to lack of movement, 350 tons will rot in 120 days. By April, Lagos will import strawberries, puree and concentrate while fresh berries rot in Jos,” Balogun said.
The real fix, according to Grace, is reliable, temperature-controlled vans and cargo planes that are “very fast” to preserve strawberries during transit out of Jos.
However, the issue must first be resolved on the farm, she said.
Recently, security worries have altered the harvest routine. Instead of picking at dawn, which is the ideal time to retain firmness, farmers now wait until it’s safer to move around. That later start means the fruit hits the sun earlier, warming up long before it reaches any buyer.
The farms also require consistent water supply through boreholes and overhead tanks to replace the more tedious process of sourcing water from distant streams with pipes.
At the top of the priority for farmers is also access to affordable, high-quality fertilisers. Grace said that getting organic fertilisers is not cheap and farmers have to liaise with “someone abroad” to get the best and use them on their farms.
Balogun says without these measures, “[Nigeria] will keep planting pride and harvesting loss.”
The gap in prices ultimately tilts the market towards imports, keeping Nigeria on a costly cycle of bringing in the very strawberries it already grows.
In 2023, the country spent up N600million to import fresh strawberries, 80 percent of which came from Niger, according to data from The World Bank and the United Nations. South Africa, Belgium, Denmark were other major sources.
“If Plateau produces approximately 700 tons this season and we lose 50 percent due to lack of movement, 350 tons will rot in 120 days. By April, Lagos will import strawberries, puree and concentrate while fresh berries rot in Jos,” Balogun said.
The real fix, according to Grace, is reliable, temperature-controlled vans and cargo planes that are “very fast” to preserve strawberries during transit out of Jos.
However, the issue must first be resolved on the farm, she said.
Recently, security worries have altered the harvest routine. Instead of picking at dawn, which is the ideal time to retain firmness, farmers now wait until it’s safer to move around. That later start means the fruit hits the sun earlier, warming up long before it reaches any buyer.
The farms also require consistent water supply through boreholes and overhead tanks to replace the more tedious process of sourcing water from distant streams with pipes.
At the top of the priority for farmers is also access to affordable, high-quality fertilisers. Grace said that getting organic fertilisers is not cheap and farmers have to liaise with “someone abroad” to get the best and use them on their farms.
Balogun says without these measures, “[Nigeria] will keep planting pride and harvesting loss.”
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Nigeria to expand digital reach with 4,000 telecom towers
The Nigerian government has approved the construction of around 4,000 telecom towers nationwide to improve digital access in underserved communities across Africa's most populous country, News.Az reports, citing Xinhua.
The Federal Executive Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, gave the green light as part of efforts to enhance basic digital connectivity and promote economic inclusion, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris said on Wednesday.
“About 23 million Nigerians are currently underserved,” Idris noted, referencing a presentation by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy during the cabinet meeting.
Limited digital access has hindered economic participation and basic communication in remote areas, Idris added.
The new initiative is also expected to boost national security and stimulate commercial activity in rural communities.
The Federal Executive Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, gave the green light as part of efforts to enhance basic digital connectivity and promote economic inclusion, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris said on Wednesday.
“About 23 million Nigerians are currently underserved,” Idris noted, referencing a presentation by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy during the cabinet meeting.
Limited digital access has hindered economic participation and basic communication in remote areas, Idris added.
The new initiative is also expected to boost national security and stimulate commercial activity in rural communities.
Monday, November 3, 2025
Video - Lagos launches $472 million electric ferry project to ease traffic congestion
Backed by the European Investment Bank and the French Development Agency, the project will deploy 75 electric-powered ferries, develop 15 routes, and build 25 modern terminals equipped with charging stations. The project is expected to transport 25 million passengers annually, promote eco-friendly transport by helping private operators transition to modern and safer vessels.
Monday, October 13, 2025
MTN Nigeria Unveils Plan to Connect 8 Million Homes with Fibre Network by 2028
The initiative supports the federal government’s National Broadband Plan and Digital Economy Policy, aiming to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to households, businesses, and SMEs across the country.
MTN Nigeria has announced plans to expand its fibre network to reach over eight million homes nationwide by 2028, reinforcing its commitment to broadband growth and digital inclusion.
The initiative supports the federal government’s National Broadband Plan and Digital Economy Policy, aiming to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to households, businesses, and SMEs across the country. MTN said the expansion is driven by Nigeria’s growing population, urbanisation, and increasing demand for low-latency connectivity to support data-heavy services and remote work.
To achieve this, the company is partnering with infrastructure providers, state governments, and local contractors to ensure sustainable fibre rollout. MTN also plans to integrate fibre into new housing projects while addressing challenges such as vandalism, right-of-way constraints, and network damages from road construction.
The telecom operator commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for designating telecom infrastructure as national assets and facilitating supportive policies. MTN reaffirmed its goal to deliver affordable, reliable broadband access and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.
MTN Nigeria has announced plans to expand its fibre network to reach over eight million homes nationwide by 2028, reinforcing its commitment to broadband growth and digital inclusion.
The initiative supports the federal government’s National Broadband Plan and Digital Economy Policy, aiming to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to households, businesses, and SMEs across the country. MTN said the expansion is driven by Nigeria’s growing population, urbanisation, and increasing demand for low-latency connectivity to support data-heavy services and remote work.
To achieve this, the company is partnering with infrastructure providers, state governments, and local contractors to ensure sustainable fibre rollout. MTN also plans to integrate fibre into new housing projects while addressing challenges such as vandalism, right-of-way constraints, and network damages from road construction.
The telecom operator commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for designating telecom infrastructure as national assets and facilitating supportive policies. MTN reaffirmed its goal to deliver affordable, reliable broadband access and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.
Monday, October 6, 2025
Chinese firms launch solar project to light up Nigerian capital city
Two Chinese construction firms, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and CGCOC Group Co., Ltd., have officially broken ground on the "Light Up Abuja" project, a flagship infrastructure initiative of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
Government officials and residents gathered on Thursday for the launch ceremony in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, which marked the start of comprehensive installations of advanced hybrid solar streetlights across the city -- a move expected to significantly enhance security and urban development.
The project, divided into two main parts, assigns CCECC and CGCOC key responsibilities for delivering integrated solar lighting systems across major districts and expressways in the FCTA.
Speaking at the ceremony, FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike highlighted the project's importance in improving residents' quality of life and safety. He noted that conventional streetlights had become largely dysfunctional due to vandalism and poor maintenance, while the new hybrid solar systems are equipped with built-in resilience and advanced features to overcome these challenges.
A key innovation, Wike said, is the integration of surveillance modules into the streetlights. These will connect to a centralized control room, enabling real-time monitoring and rapid response to vandalism and other security threats. This technology, he added, is expected to deter criminal activity and safeguard government investments in public infrastructure.
Wike hailed the deepening comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria in infrastructure development, describing the project as a tangible outcome of President Bola Tinubu's state visit to Beijing in September 2024 and a reinforcement of the mutually beneficial ties between the two countries.
Scheduled for completion within six to seven months, the project aims to transform Abuja's nighttime landscape ahead of the city's 50th anniversary in 2026. Under the agreement, the two Chinese firms will not only install but also maintain the solar lighting systems for four to five years.
"This project actually captures all the major areas of Abuja. As we all know, light is essential to our lives and livelihood. In this work, what we will deliver to Nigerians is not only the streetlight, but we will also proffer solutions to power supply and lighting problems, using solar energy," said Guan Shuai, managing director of CCECC in Nigeria.
Government officials and residents gathered on Thursday for the launch ceremony in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, which marked the start of comprehensive installations of advanced hybrid solar streetlights across the city -- a move expected to significantly enhance security and urban development.
The project, divided into two main parts, assigns CCECC and CGCOC key responsibilities for delivering integrated solar lighting systems across major districts and expressways in the FCTA.
Speaking at the ceremony, FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike highlighted the project's importance in improving residents' quality of life and safety. He noted that conventional streetlights had become largely dysfunctional due to vandalism and poor maintenance, while the new hybrid solar systems are equipped with built-in resilience and advanced features to overcome these challenges.
A key innovation, Wike said, is the integration of surveillance modules into the streetlights. These will connect to a centralized control room, enabling real-time monitoring and rapid response to vandalism and other security threats. This technology, he added, is expected to deter criminal activity and safeguard government investments in public infrastructure.
Wike hailed the deepening comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria in infrastructure development, describing the project as a tangible outcome of President Bola Tinubu's state visit to Beijing in September 2024 and a reinforcement of the mutually beneficial ties between the two countries.
Scheduled for completion within six to seven months, the project aims to transform Abuja's nighttime landscape ahead of the city's 50th anniversary in 2026. Under the agreement, the two Chinese firms will not only install but also maintain the solar lighting systems for four to five years.
"This project actually captures all the major areas of Abuja. As we all know, light is essential to our lives and livelihood. In this work, what we will deliver to Nigerians is not only the streetlight, but we will also proffer solutions to power supply and lighting problems, using solar energy," said Guan Shuai, managing director of CCECC in Nigeria.
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