Katsina Unveils Plan to Achieve 70% Broadband Penetration and Lay 2,000km Fibre Network by 2030

“Broadband Is a Lifeline of Modern Governance”

Governor Radda described broadband access as fundamental to modern governance and sustainable growth.

“Our vision is to achieve 70% broadband penetration and lay at least 2,000km of fiber optic network across Katsina by 2030, ensuring that both rural and urban communities are fully connected,” he said.

“Broadband is no longer a luxury; it’s a lifeline for modern governance, security, education, healthcare, and economic growth.”

ICT-Driven Reforms Strengthen Governance

The Governor outlined several reforms already implemented by his administration to foster transparency, accountability, and private investment in technology infrastructure.

These include:

Establishing a Directorate of ICT to drive technology-led governance.
Waiving Right-of-Way (RoW) charges to attract broadband investors.
Introducing ICT-based systems such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA), e-Government services, and digital land administration platforms.

Radda noted that these reforms have created an enabling environment for innovation and public-private collaboration in Katsina’s digital economy.

$8 Million World Bank Credit for Digital Reforms

Governor Radda also revealed that Katsina State received an $8 million credit under the World Bank–supported State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme, in recognition of its progress in ICT-led reforms.

“This achievement reflects our seriousness about digital governance, investor confidence, and transparency,” he said.
“It underscores our commitment to building a technology-driven economy that encourages entrepreneurship and sustainable development.”

Positioning Katsina as a Northern Digital Hub

The Governor expressed optimism that the ongoing projects will make Katsina a regional leader in technology and innovation.

“With these milestones, Katsina is positioning itself as a leading hub for digital growth and innovation in Northern Nigeria,” Radda added.
“Collaboration with federal and development partners remains central to achieving this vision.”

Nigeria’s Expanding Digital Landscape

Nigeria’s broadband and digital infrastructure have grown steadily in recent years, supported by improved telecommunications networks and increasing digital literacy.

Katsina currently ranks among the top 10 Nigerian states with the highest number of internet users, with about 4.6 million active connections. The state previously recorded a 41.46% growth in mobile internet subscribers between 2019 and 2020 — the fastest nationwide during that period.

At the national level, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, recently announced a $2 billion broadband expansion project aimed at achieving universal broadband coverage across all 774 local government areas within three years.

Tijani noted that improved connectivity, especially in rural areas, could add up to $25 billion annually to Nigeria’s agricultural output and accelerate digital inclusion nationwide.

Key Takeaways

Katsina targets 70% broadband penetration and 2,000km of fibre network by 2030.
The state secured $8 million World Bank credit under the SABER Programme.
Digital reforms include TSA, e-Government, and land digitization systems.
Katsina is positioning itself as a Northern Nigeria digital innovation hub.