DBI and ITU Launch Fibre Optic Training Programme for African and European Participants in Abuja

The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI),  in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU),  has launched a high-level training programme to equip 31 participants from 10 African and European countries with critical fibre optic infrastructure skills.

The programme, hosted at DBI headquarters in Abuja and sponsored by the European Union (EU) under its Global Gateway Initiative, aims to strengthen digital infrastructure deployment capacity and create new pathways for digital employment.

DBI President/CEO, David Daser, represented by Director, Special Duties Viola Askia Usoro, described the training as a strategic milestone in building a future-ready workforce capable of driving broadband expansion and innovation.

He emphasized that the programme would equip participants with competencies in fibre deployment planning, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure sharing, and stakeholder engagement.

Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida noted that robust fibre optic infrastructure is the foundation for any digital transformation agenda.

Wada, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, NCC, Engr. Abraham Oshadami,
linked the training to Nigeria’s ambition to accelerate broadband penetration, financial inclusion, and efficient service delivery.

The training is part of ITU’s global training portfolio, which delivers over 150 capacity-building initiatives annually.

The EU Head of Section, Green and Digital Economy, Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Inga Stefanowicz, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation through strategic investments and partnerships.

She stated that Nigeria needs digital skills, innovative hubs, digital public infrastructure, and fibre optic infrastructure to power its digital economy ecosystems.

ITU Project Officer, Mr. Ghazi Mabrouk, said the training was part of face-to-face programmes supported by ITU to fast-track infrastructure deployment, bridge digital gaps, ensure financial inclusion, and promote innovations in Africa.

The Training Coordinator and DBI Head of Research and Innovation, Dr. Paulinus Ugwoke, welcomed the participants to Nigeria and commended their approach and determination to learning.

The programme is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s goal of deploying 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables nationwide, deepening connectivity across all 774 local government areas.