In response to the infrastructure gaps limiting the pace of Nigeria's digital transformation, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy launched Project Bridge (Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth). The initiative aims to deploy at least 90,000 km of fiber, thereby establishing fiber as the foundation for nationwide digital connectivity and universal access to information and communications technology (ICT).
Against this backdrop, Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL), a subsidiary of IHS Towers in Nigeria, has emerged as a key player in the deployment of nationwide fiber optic networks that supports the Project Bridge agenda.
Headquartered in Lagos, GICL's specialty is to provide active network infrastructure and services that support high speed data transmission and access to fiber connectivity, as well as increase network access to rural communities. With the successful rollout of over 15,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, GICL is helping to bridge the digital divide and advance Nigeria's digital economy.
This milestone makes GICL the owner of the largest fiber network footprint in Nigeria, excluding networks owned by mobile network operators (MNOs). And the company has achieved this feat in less than five years, starting fiber optic deployment in 2021. By helping establish Nigeria's fiber optic backbone, GICL is increasing the capacity and efficiency of fiber access networks and helping pave the way for the integration of next generation technologies.
Promoting digital inclusion across Nigeria
GICL's fiber footprint extends beyond urban areas; It also provides services in underserved and unserved rural communities. Through its Rural Telephony Programme, GICL has provided broadband connectivity and access to 2G, 3G and 4G mobile network coverage to over 500 previously unconnected rural communities across 25 states, potentially benefiting over 3.5 million people. The company was honored for this achievement at the 2024 World Space Business Awards, where GICL won the “Universal Broadband Award” in partnership with Avanti Communications.
A key aspect of GICL's impact is its contribution to Nigeria's Internet backbone. By connecting IXPN (Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria) Point of Presence (POP) in Delta and Enugu, GICL has helped reduce latency and localize Internet content and traffic. This is expected to improve local traffic exchange, increase reliability and connectivity for Internet service providers (ISPs), and reduce costs for both local ISPs and businesses.
This increased reach of connectivity is expected to enhance service delivery across various sectors. For example, it has the potential to increase access to online educational resources and provide health services through telemedicine.
In Anambra State, it has provided connectivity to major economic centers such as Ek Awka Market, Awka Millennium City and Agulu Lake Resort. This can help attract investment, boost tourism, and promote innovation and growth for businesses within these communities.
GICL’s commitment to digital transformation is also evident in other projects, such as the Offa One Innovation Hub in Kwara State. This hub is connected by 8.76 km fiber optic cable of GICL and is designed as a center for technology and entrepreneurship training programmes. The provision of 45 Mbps internet link and dark fiber connectivity in the hub aims to enable training and ICT support for youth in areas such as software engineering and artificial intelligence.
supporting economic development
By utilizing IHS Nigeria's towers and connecting them to fiber infrastructure, GICL is able to facilitate the delivery of digital services to homes, businesses and government institutions across the country. The deployment of fiber-to-the-tower (FTTT) technology by GICL supports increased transmission capacity, which is essential for the rollout of advanced technologies such as 5G connectivity.
This infrastructure supports the growth of e-commerce activities, digital banking services and other online services that are important for the development of the digital economy. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can take advantage of reliable internet services to expand their market reach through e-commerce platforms and access various online payment platforms suited to their needs.
creating lasting impact
One of the main strengths of GICL is its ability to collaborate with various stakeholders including MNOs and federal and state governments to deploy its fiber infrastructure more efficiently. By operating an open-access, shared infrastructure model, GICL enables multiple, smaller ISPs and operators to leverage the same infrastructure, thereby optimizing resources and promoting efficiency, while also promoting competition.
In states like Edo, Borno and Katsina, GICL's fiber infrastructure is already helping accelerate digital transformation by connecting government offices, schools and markets. For example, in Edo State, GICL has connected 18 local government areas and allocated dark fiber for the state's Smart City project to connect government facilities to public institutions. The company has also provided a security camera system and additional maintenance support through its network operating centers, enhancing local infrastructure and improving connectivity between different branches of government.
GICL's work in Borno State includes connecting seven government locations and ministries with 155 Mbps internet links and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technology that supports improved communications and operational efficiency. It has also provided connectivity to institutions such as Ramat Polytechnic, Pilgrims Welfare Board and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency. GICL has also connected nine government offices and residences in Katsina State to support socio-economic development through reliable high-speed internet access.
looking ahead
GICL's commitment to bridging Nigeria's digital divide is evident in its work across the country, from urban areas to remote villages and communities. As part of IHS Towers, it is driven by the vision of a smarter, more connected Nigeria with the goal of becoming the country's backbone for digital possibilities. With the ambition to connect more rural communities and strengthen network strength in urban centres, GICL is deploying innovative technology to provide faster, more secure and scalable connectivity. It believes it has the potential to unlock efficiencies, attract innovation and drive digital transformation across the country for state governments, municipalities and educational institutions.
