The United States Trade and Development Agency has announced plans to support the deployment of wireless communication infrastructure in Nigeria and three other West African countries as part of efforts to expand internet access across underserved communities.
The project will cover Nigeria, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana through the installation of about 1,500 mobile communication base stations using American-made technology.
According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, the agency is funding a feasibility study for the large-scale rollout of the infrastructure by Massachusetts-based technology company, Vanu Inc.
The study is expected to examine existing telecommunications infrastructure, market conditions, legal frameworks and financing options needed for implementation across the four countries.
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency said the initiative is aimed at bridging connectivity gaps between urban and rural areas while improving access to faster and more reliable mobile services.
Deputy Director of the agency, Thomas Hardy, said the programme would promote secure and affordable internet access in off-grid communities while also creating opportunities for American technology companies.
He noted that the project would provide an alternative to what he described as insecure infrastructure and strengthen digital connectivity in the region.
The agency added that the deployment would support economic activities in communities that currently rely on outdated 2G and 3G networks or have limited internet access.
Vanu Inc. said the initiative would help mobile network operators deliver broadband and voice services in difficult and underserved markets across West Africa.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Beard, said the project is expected to attract investment, expand U.S. exports and accelerate access to secure digital infrastructure in the region.
