Lagos Launches Phase 2 of 3,300 km Metro Fibre to Boost Digital Growth

In a drive to fully digitize government services and make Lagos a smart, connected, and safe metropolis, the Lagos State Government has begun the second phase of its ambitious 3,300-kilometer metro fibre project.

During the Ministry’s annual Ministerial Press Briefing on Friday, Olatunbosun Alake, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, made the announcement.

Alake claims that this new phase, which builds on the 2,700 km that have already been installed throughout the state, aims to improve digital access and internet connectivity in underserved communities.

Over one million new internet users were added as a result of the metro fibre plan between 2023 and 2025, according to Alake. It also made it possible for telecom companies to install infrastructure in long-neglected areas of Lagos. 

Additionally, Alake highlighted the state’s clever Safe City Project, which was carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation.

He claims that in order to enhance security and traffic control, the project makes use of sophisticated transportation systems and surveillance technologies.

He pointed out that places like Alapere and Allen Avenue already have clever video surveillance cameras and automated number plate recognition (ANPR) installed.

“These intelligent systems are improving public safety and assisting in the enforcement of traffic laws,” said Alake.

Using enterprise architecture to digitize governance, Lagos, according to Alake, is retooling its internal systems in addition to its physical infrastructure.

In order to handle finances and treasury operations, he disclosed that the state is putting an Oracle ERP system into place and digitizing service delivery across 40 government entities as part of an Enterprise Architecture initiative.

He stated that increasing service delivery efficiency and streamlining processes are the ultimate goals.

The Commissioner also mentioned that the state government has introduced a new digital platform that allows Lagos residents to access a variety of government services.

Services in important fields like urban planning, education, advertising, and agriculture are supported by the platform.

“We’re creating citizen-facing platforms that facilitate easy communication with the government,” Alake stated.

With the AI policies and plans for the future, Lagos is getting ready to publish its first set of artificial intelligence (AI) rules as it continues its shift toward digital transformation.

With a focus on diversity, equity, and data protection, these principles will act as a self-assessment framework for businesses creating AI solutions.

According to Alake, the Ministry also intends to implement chatbots driven by AI on its platforms in order to enhance service delivery and public engagement.

A special research and development (R&D) council will also be formed to promote AI innovation and sustain the state’s long-term technical advancement.