In a significant stride towards bridging the digital divide and empowering Nigerian students with reliable internet access, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has officially launched the “Fibre 2 Hostel” project.
The groundbreaking initiative aimed at delivering high-speed broadband connectivity to student hostels across seven major universities nationwide.
The “Fibre 2 Hostel” project is being implemented by Galaxy Backbone Limited (GBB) in partnership with Tizeti, Huawei, and the National Broadband Alliance Nigeria (NBAN).
It seeks to provide secure, high-speed internet access to support online learning, research, digital entrepreneurship, and authenticated digital platforms for students.
The initiative was flagged off at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on May 26, 2025, and subsequently at the University of Abuja on May 28, 2025, marking the beginning of a phased rollout across selected institutions.
Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, managing director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone, described the project as a vital intervention to ensure students across Nigeria are not left behind in the global digital revolution.
“We are committed to creating equitable access to digital resources. This project is not just about connectivity — it’s about equipping our young people with the tools they need to learn, innovate, and thrive in a connected world,” Prof. Adeyanju stated.
The seven universities that would benefit from this Fibre to Hostel project include; University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State, University of Abuja, FCT, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Anambra State, University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State, University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Borno State and the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The first two universities have been deployed, while the remaining five will be commissioned in the next couple of months.
At the University of Abuja launch event, Mr. Sani Ibrahim, Executive Director, Finance and Corporate Communications, Galaxy Backbone Limited (who represented the MD/CEO), emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative.
“This project is about empowering the next generation of Nigerian leaders with the digital tools needed to excel in today’s global economy,” he said. “It also aligns with the government’s broader broadband penetration agenda and Galaxy Backbone’s mandate to drive digital transformation across the nation.”
Industry stakeholders have applauded the initiative.
Mr. Temitope Osunde of Tizeti hailed the project as “a bold move toward building smarter, future-ready campuses,” noting that it reflects a shared vision for enabling tech-driven academic environments.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Olarinre Adeladan, permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications, urged students to leverage the infrastructure to build a better future.
“This is not just about faster internet; it’s about building a more competitive, knowledge-driven Nigeria,” he said. The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, also encouraged students to focus on academic excellence and personal development. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasized responsible digital citizenship. In his words to the students; “What you know matters — but what you do with that knowledge matters even more,” he charged students. Student representatives from both UNILAG and the University of Abuja expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and partners, describing the initiative as “a game-changer” for campus life and learning outcomes.
According to a the statement by Chidi Okpala, head, Corporate Communications at GBB, with successful launches now completed at two institutions, the Fibre 2 Hostel project is set to continue its rollout to the remaining universities in the coming months, marking a major leap forward for digital inclusion and smart education in Nigeria.
