The United States Trade and Development Agency has announced plans to support the rollout of about 1,500 mobile communication base stations across Nigeria and other West African countries as part of efforts to improve internet access in underserved communities.
According to a statement released on Tuesday, the project will cover Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, with a focus on expanding connectivity in areas where access to reliable internet services remains limited.
The agency explained that the initiative will deploy wireless infrastructure developed by American technology company Vanu Inc., especially in remote and off grid communities that still struggle with weak network coverage and outdated telecommunications systems.
The project is expected to strengthen digital infrastructure across the region while helping millions of people gain access to more stable broadband and voice services.
USTDA Deputy Director Thomas Hardy said the initiative is designed to provide affordable and trusted internet connectivity in communities that have long been left behind in the digital space.
He noted that the project would also create business opportunities for American companies while offering what he described as a safer alternative to insecure communication infrastructure.
As part of the process, the agency revealed that it has funded a feasibility study for the project through Vanu Côte d’Ivoire, with technical support from Georgia based Vernonburg Group LLC.
The study is expected to examine the commercial viability of the rollout, assess regulatory conditions in the participating countries, evaluate existing telecommunications infrastructure and develop a financial strategy for implementation.
Chief Executive Officer of Vanu Inc., Andrew Beard, said the company’s technology was specifically designed to help network providers deliver broadband internet and voice services in economically difficult and operationally challenging locations.
According to him, the partnership with the USTDA will help demonstrate that providing connectivity in underserved communities can be profitable, sustainable and capable of long term expansion.
He added that the study would also play a key role in attracting investors and accelerating the deployment of secure digital infrastructure across the West African region.
The development is expected to boost internet penetration and digital access in several communities where millions of people still rely heavily on outdated 2G and 3G network services.
