The U.S. Department of State hosted the inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue big step in bilateral cooperation on technology and innovation. A key highlight of the event was the signing of a $2.1 million grant to evaluate the deployment of over 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic infrastructure across Nigeria.
The grant, funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, supports Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan (2020-2025), which aims to increase broadband penetration to 70% and provide affordable access to 90% of the population.
Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell led the dialogue, welcoming a senior Nigerian delegation headed by the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
This event builds on previous collaborations, including the sixth U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission held in Abuja in April 2024 and the Global Inclusivity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) event in Lagos in September 2024.
The U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue is designed to strengthen partnerships in critical technology sectors, foster innovation, and enhance interagency and stakeholder collaboration.It aligns with the Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative by creating an enabling environment for digital transformation, boosting digital infrastructure, and advancing skills development.
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Broadband Expansion Plan
The newly signed $2.1 million grant aims to assess the feasibility of deploying an extensive fiber optic network in Nigeria, complementing the National Broadband Plan’s mission to improve connectivity and bridge the digital divide. Nigeria’s current broadband penetration rate of 42.27% is set to rise significantly under this plan, ensuring affordable and reliable access for the majority of its citizens.
Key Discussions and Agreements
During the dialogue, both parties emphasized strengthening the resilience and security of critical infrastructure, promoting digital trade and e-commerce, and fostering economic growth driven by innovation. Discussions also focused on: building a skilled digital workforce, expanding partnerships in artificial intelligence for capacity building and governance,e and addressing information integrity and cybersecurity.
A virtual expert exchange on AI-enabled biotechnology was also announced, aiming to explore the convergence of AI and biotechnology to address global health and food security challenges, with a particular focus on sub-Saharan Africa.
Public-Private Collaboration
Following formal discussions, a roundtable hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce brought together representatives from over 25 U.S. and Nigerian technology companies. Industry leaders explored opportunities for public-private partnerships to spur innovation and develop digital talent. Panel discussions covered topics including public-private sector investment in innovation and the role of critical infrastructure in advancing artificial intelligence.
Looking Ahead
The U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue represents a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the two nations. By fostering collaboration in technology, infrastructure, and skills development, this partnership aims to drive inclusive growth and unlock the potential of digital transformation for millions of people across Nigeria and beyond.
