The Federal Government has launched the National Digital Economy Research Clusters under Project BRIDGE, a $2 billion initiative aimed at integrating universities into the national digital economy framework. Over 90,000 km of fibre optic infrastructure will be deployed to connect higher education institutions, enhancing research and digital access. The clusters will focus on six priority areas: connectivity, digital public infrastructure, digital skills, digital economy, trust and safety, and artificial intelligence. The programme is designed to generate practical outcomes, including policy solutions and job creation. It aligns with existing efforts such as EIBIC, NgREN, and the Student Venture Capital Grant.
Project BRIDGE positions Nigerian universities as key players in the country's digital transformation by linking research directly to infrastructure and economic goals. With $2 billion committed and over 90,000 km of fibre set to connect campuses, students and researchers gain new opportunities for innovation in high-demand fields like AI and digital infrastructure.
