The Lagos State Government has launched the second phase of its ambitious metro fibre project, extending internet infrastructure across the city to drive its digital transformation agenda.
Olatunbosun Alake, Commissioner for Science, Innovation and Technology, announced the development at a press briefing on Friday. The new phase adds 600km of fibre optic cable, building on the 2,700km already deployed, with a target of reaching 6,000km by 2027.
According to Alake, the expanded network is designed to improve internet connectivity, especially in underserved areas. “Between 2023 and 2025, the metro fibre initiative led to over one million new internet subscribers. It also enabled telecom operators to roll out infrastructure in parts of Lagos that had long been neglected,” he said.
The project is a cornerstone of Lagos’ vision to become a safe, smart, and connected city. As part of this push, the state has also rolled out the Safe City Project, deploying intelligent transport systems and surveillance cameras in key locations to enhance security and traffic management. Automatic number plate recognition and video surveillance systems are already operational in areas like Alapere and Allen Avenue.
In addition to physical infrastructure, Lagos is digitising its internal systems. The government is implementing an Enterprise Architecture project, digitising service delivery across 40 agencies and introducing an Oracle ERP system to streamline finances and treasury operations. Residents can now access various government services through a new digital platform covering sectors such as agriculture, education, and urban planning.
Lagos plans to introduce its first set of artificial intelligence (AI) guidelines, focusing on data protection, fairness, and diversity. The state also intends to deploy AI-powered chatbots to improve public engagement and establish a dedicated research and development council to foster long-term technological growth.
Officials say the metro fibre project operates as a public-private partnership, with most funding coming from the private sector and the government providing an enabling environment.
