Lagos State has secured a $22 million foreign direct investment (FDI) to expand its fibre optic infrastructure by an additional 2,700 kilometres, reinforcing its ambition to become West Africa’s digital hub.
The investment, facilitated through the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA), was announced by Engr. Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Infrastructure, during a press briefing commemorating the governor’s second term.
“This initiative positions Lagos as a strategic digital backbone not only for Nigeria but for the entire West African sub-region,” Daramola said. “With 3,000km of fibre ducts already in place and 2,700km now planned, the state is targeting a total rollout of 6,800km.”
The expansion is part of a broader plan to enhance digital infrastructure, improve broadband access in underserved communities, and support the vision of a smart, connected megacity.
Beyond internet access, the fibre network underpins critical digital transformation efforts. Already, Lagos has recorded over one million new internet subscriptions between 2023 and 2025, with more gains expected as the infrastructure scales.
Key public infrastructure, including smart surveillance and automated traffic systems, are being deployed in high-traffic areas such as Alapere and Allen Avenue. Over 450 smart cameras are operational, while 14 state agencies have digitised their services—milestones in a wider effort to modernise governance and public safety.
In 2023 alone, Lagos attracted over $1.2 billion in tech startup funding—accounting for 75% of Nigeria’s total. With four data centres currently under construction and plans for another 1,200km of fibre rollout in 2025, Lagos is rapidly shaping into a robust digital economy.
“We are expanding our fibre optic backbone and fast-tracking the Safe City Project to prepare Lagos for the digital future,” another official said during the briefing.
However, the government warned that infrastructure vandalism remains a serious threat. To combat this, the state is introducing anti-theft innovations such as composite manhole covers and handrails, which are less attractive to vandals.
This digital transformation aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda—a strategic roadmap for building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive Lagos.
Complementing this are significant infrastructure upgrades: since 2023, over 1,160 roads have been rehabilitated, and the Lagos State Public Works Corporation has transitioned from basic maintenance to full-scale road construction.
As the state deepens its commitment to smart infrastructure, Lagos is not just laying cables—it is laying the foundation for a smarter future.
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