The Nigerian Federal Government has announced a ₦12 billion investment in digital economy research projects to foster innovation and evidence-based policy, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
The initiative, funded under Project BRIDGE, aims to support university research clusters focusing on artificial intelligence, connectivity, and digital skill development.
Speaking at the opening of the 18th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV 2025), the minister outlined the strategic importance of the fund, noting that it is dedicated to research and complements the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable nationwide. He further provided clarifications while appearing on Arise TV network in Abuja today, emphasizing that the initiative is designed to ensure that the nation’s digital infrastructure investments translate into tangible economic growth and robust policy frameworks.
The minister explained that the ₦12 billion fund will focus on six main areas, including artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, digital skills, and online trust, with the goal of bridging the gap between academic research and practical industry application.
He stated that the initiative actively engages academic institutions, with research clusters expected to be led by professors and involve over 200 researchers and PhD candidates, ensuring that the country develops homegrown solutions to its digital challenges.
According to Dr. Tijani, Project BRIDGE represents a long-term strategy to move beyond mere infrastructure deployment, adding that “we are not just laying fibre; we are investing in the intellectual capital required to drive innovation and create evidence-based policies that will define our digital future.”
He reiterated that the government is committed to fostering a collaborative environment where universities play a central role in shaping the country’s digital economy.
