Nigeria Urged to Invest in AI Infrastructure or Face Digital Divide

4:47

Nigeria Urged to Invest in AI Infrastructure or Face Digital Divide

Published by YuToday Staff

1 day ago · 4:47 readSeptember 2, 2026

Nigeria stands at a crossroads in its digital evolution, with industry leaders warning that without immediate investment in critical infrastructure, the country risks being left behind in the global economy. Dr Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman of MTN Nigeria and former head of the Nigerian Communications Commission, emphasized the need for power grids, data centres, and fibre networks to support an AI-driven future. Speaking during MTN’s 25th anniversary in Nigeria, he reflected on the transformative impact of GSM services and urged stakeholders to act decisively to prevent a new digital divide.

Key takeaways

Nigeria must invest in power, data centres, and fibre networks to avoid a digital divide.
The country’s GSM success shows the potential of infrastructure investment.
Without action, Nigeria risks falling behind in the global digital economy.
Closing infrastructure gaps could attract foreign investment and create jobs.

Nigeria’s Digital Leap: From GSM to AI Readiness

Twenty-five years ago, the launch of GSM services revolutionized Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, shifting the country from a mere 400,000 fixed lines and 20,000 analogue mobile connections to a thriving digital economy. Today, the industry has become the backbone of Nigeria’s growth, enabling everything from financial services to healthcare. However, as the world accelerates toward an AI-driven future, experts warn that Nigeria’s progress hinges on its ability to build robust infrastructure. Without significant investments in power supply, data centres, and fibre networks, the country risks creating a new digital divide, where only a fraction of the population can participate in the global economy. The urgency of this challenge was underscored by Dr Ernest Ndukwe, who highlighted the need for Nigeria to match its past achievements with forward-looking investments.

The Cost of Inaction: Risks of a Widening Digital Divide

The consequences of failing to invest in digital infrastructure could be severe for Nigeria. A digital divide would not only exclude millions from economic opportunities but also widen inequality, leaving rural communities and small businesses at a disadvantage. Industry leaders point to the stark contrast between Nigeria’s current infrastructure and the demands of a modern digital economy. While GSM services laid the groundwork for connectivity, the next phase requires more than just mobile networks—it demands reliable power, high-speed internet, and advanced data processing capabilities. Without these, Nigeria risks becoming a passive consumer of global technology rather than an active participant, stifling innovation and economic growth. The warning comes as the country celebrates two decades of GSM progress, serving as a reminder that past successes are no guarantee of future relevance.

Infrastructure Gaps: Power, Data Centres, and Fibre Networks

Nigeria’s digital infrastructure remains fragmented, with critical gaps in power supply, data centre capacity, and fibre network coverage. Power outages and unreliable electricity remain a persistent challenge, hampering the operation of data centres and digital services. Meanwhile, the country’s fibre network, essential for high-speed internet, is underdeveloped, limiting connectivity in many regions. Industry experts argue that addressing these gaps is not just a technical challenge but an economic imperative. Investing in these areas would not only support the growth of digital industries but also attract foreign investment and create jobs. The call for action aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals of economic diversification and digital transformation, positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s tech revolution.

Lessons from GSM: How Past Innovations Can Guide the Future

The success of GSM services in Nigeria offers valuable lessons for the country’s next phase of digital development. When GSM was introduced, Nigeria had a severely underdeveloped telecommunications sector, with NITEL’s analogue infrastructure proving inadequate for the population’s needs. The rapid adoption of GSM services transformed the industry, demonstrating the power of innovation and private-sector investment. Today, the challenge is to replicate that success on a larger scale, with a focus on infrastructure that supports advanced technologies. Dr Ndukwe’s remarks during MTN’s anniversary highlight the need for a similar level of urgency and collaboration among government, private sector, and international partners. By learning from the past, Nigeria can build a digital future that is inclusive, competitive, and sustainable.

Global Competition: Why Nigeria Must Act Now

Nigeria is not alone in its quest to build a digital future, and the competition is fierce. Countries across Africa and beyond are racing to develop their digital infrastructure, with some already reaping the benefits of early investments. For Nigeria to remain competitive, it must act swiftly to close its infrastructure gaps and position itself as a hub for digital innovation. The global economy is increasingly driven by data and technology, and nations that fail to adapt risk falling behind. By prioritizing investments in power, data centres, and fibre networks, Nigeria can attract tech companies, foster startups, and create a skilled workforce ready for the digital age. The stakes are high, but the potential rewards—economic growth, job creation, and global influence—are even higher.

What happens next

As Nigeria grapples with the urgent need for digital infrastructure investment, stakeholders must move quickly to develop a roadmap that addresses power, data centres, and fibre networks. The government’s role in creating enabling policies and incentives will be critical, as will partnerships with private companies and international investors. Meanwhile, tech startups and businesses must prepare for a future where connectivity and advanced technologies are the norm. The next five years will determine whether Nigeria can bridge the digital divide or fall further behind in the global race for technological supremacy.