Tijani explains controversial Interview, unveils massive digital investment plans

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ’Bosun Tijani, has issued a clarification on comments he made during a recent interview on Channels Television, following what he described as widespread public discussion and misinterpretation of his remarks.

In a statement posted on his official X handle on Sunday, Tijani explained that his comments were taken out of context and urged Nigerians to watch the full interview, which he said focused largely on the progress and impact of the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.

“Over the past two days, there has been significant public discussion around a comment I made during an interview on Channels Television,” Tijani said, saying that “I would like to clarify the intention behind that part of the conversation and encourage everyone to watch the full interview.”

Tijani said his remarks were aimed at drawing attention to gaps in digital infrastructure and connectivity in parts of the country, which he described as both a development and security concern.

“In responding to a question during the interview, my objective was to explain that gaps in digital infrastructure and connectivity in some parts of the country represent a development and security vulnerability,” he said.

“These gaps limit economic opportunity, restrict access to services, and weaken coordination and inclusion.”

Tijani stressed that addressing these challenges is a key priority of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the Federal Government is making what he described as historic investments to ensure nationwide digital inclusion.

“This is precisely why the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making historic investments in digital infrastructure to ensure no part of Nigeria is left behind,” he said.

He outlined several major initiatives currently being pursued by the government, including Project Bridge, a proposed 90,000-kilometre national fibre-optic backbone designed to connect every geopolitical zone, state and local government area in the country.

According to him, the government is also deploying 3,700 new telecommunications towers to unserved and underserved communities, a move expected to connect more than 23 million Nigerians who currently lack access to reliable communication services.

In addition, Tijani said efforts are underway to strengthen the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) system through the replacement of its existing satellite and the launch of two new communication satellites to improve national coverage and resilience.

“Together, these investments will deepen connectivity across the country, strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy, and ensure that digital infrastructure contributes meaningfully to economic prosperity, inclusion, and national development,” he said.

The minister maintained that his comments during the interview were made strictly within this context, emphasising the importance of closing connectivity gaps and outlining the deliberate steps being taken by the Tinubu administration to address them.

“My comments were made in this context, to highlight why closing connectivity gaps matters, and how this administration is deliberately working to address them,” Tijani added.