Broadband Penetration: IHS Rolls Out 10,000km Of Fiber Optic Cables

IHS Nigeria, through its subsidiary, Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL), has completed the rollout of more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory(FCT).

Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) latest telecommunications statistical indicators put broadband penetration at 40.85 per cent.

The rollout of more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables across the country is to support the federal government’s National Broadband Plan, targeting 70 per cent broadband penetration in Nigeria by 2025.

In addition to GICL’s fiber optic network, IHS Nigeria has also implemented mobile network coverage in over 580 previously unconnected rural communities in Nigeria through its rural telephony program. By helping deliver voice and data services to these communities, IHS Nigeria is working to meet Mobile Network Operators’ rollout targets and support the federal government’s digital inclusion agenda.

Vice president, GICL, Kazeem Oladepo, in a press statement,  made available to LEADERSHIP, averred that, limited metropolitan and long-haul fiber optic networks continue to be an obstacle to the improvement of existing communication services, and the introduction of emerging technologies and digital services in Nigeria.

“Our approach to fiber optic cable deployment concentrates on implementing networks on an open access, shared infrastructure basis, providing robust and scalable fiber pairs and alternate ducts to ensure multiple operators can utilise the infrastructure.

“Through collaborations with multiple stakeholders, including our customers, state and federal agencies, we have achieved a significant volume of fiber optic cable network delivery in under three years. We are committed to supporting the federal government’s digital economy objectives, and this milestone demonstrates the possibilities of accelerated critical infrastructure roll-out when key stakeholders align their objectives,” Oladepo explained.