EBRD Targets Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure with Project Bridge Fibre Initiative
Among the projects discussed was the proposed Project Bridge fibre optic infrastructure initiative, which forms part of the bank's initial investment pipeline.
Nigeria is set to deepen its partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) following high-level discussions on infrastructure financing, capital market development and digital infrastructure investment.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, visited the newly established EBRD Country Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he met with the bank’s senior leadership to discuss expanding cooperation. The meeting follows Nigeria’s admission as an EBRD member in 2025 and the commencement of the bank’s operations in the country.
During the meeting, the EBRD reaffirmed its commitment to making Nigeria one of its priority investment destinations, citing confidence in the country’s economic outlook and ongoing reform programme. Discussions focused on collaboration in infrastructure financing, financial sector development, capital market deepening, project preparation, public-private partnerships (PPPs) and sustainable economic growth.
Among the projects discussed was the proposed Project Bridge fibre optic infrastructure initiative, which forms part of the bank’s initial investment pipeline. The EBRD also outlined plans to support the recapitalisation of Nigerian financial institutions through equity investments, subordinated debt, guarantees and risk-sharing facilities aimed at unlocking greater financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), agribusiness, industrial development and climate-related investments.
The finance minister welcomed the EBRD’s decision to establish a permanent office in Nigeria and its plans to support the domestic capital market through proposed naira-denominated bond issuances. He noted that local currency financing aligns with the Federal Government’s objective of reducing foreign exchange exposure while expanding access to long-term capital.
Both parties also explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration on identifying, preparing and implementing bankable infrastructure and PPP projects capable of attracting domestic and international investment. Additional discussions covered green finance, climate transition, institutional reforms, financial inclusion and technical assistance to support Nigeria’s economic reform agenda.
The meeting concluded with a commitment by both sides to accelerate the implementation of priority projects, deepen strategic cooperation and mobilise investments that will strengthen the private sector, create jobs and support inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
