By Martin Ekpeke
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has hailed the formal launch of the Coleman Technical Industries Limited (CTIL) fibre optic cable factory in Sagamu, describing it as a truly significant milestone that perfectly aligns with the government’s ambitious digital connectivity goals.
The factory, which is now the largest fibre optic cable manufacturing facility in Africa, was officially launched as part of CTIL’s celebration of 50 years of excellence in cable manufacturing.
Minister Tijani expressed his immense excitement, noting that the local establishment of this critical manufacturing component factory comes at an opportune time, complementing the government’s efforts to achieve widespread digital access.
The launch is expected to be a major boost for Project BRIDGE, the government’s initiative to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Nigeria.
“You can only imagine my excitement at the launch of this new and impressive facility, considering our ongoing effort to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Nigeria through Project BRIDGE. The establishment of a factory capable of manufacturing this critical component right here at home by a local company is a truly significant milestone and the timing could not be more perfect,” Dr. Tijani stated.
Beyond supporting Nigeria’s massive infrastructure deployment, the new Coleman facility is poised to serve as a continental hub. The Minister noted that the factory will not only meet the fibre needs of Project BRIDGE but also supply similar critical infrastructure projects across Africa in the years to come, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a regional industrial power.
The Minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the Chairman, CEO, and the entire management and staff of Coleman Cables for their vision and commitment to Nigeria’s industrial growth.
He also specially recognised the role of the Ogun State government: “I also wish to specially recognise Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, for making the state one of the most attractive destinations for investors and industries in Nigeria.”
Dr. Tijani concluded by expressing deep appreciation to the President, saying, “To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I express deep appreciation for his visionary leadership, setting Nigeria the ambitious target of becoming a $1 trillion economy and backing it up with bold, deliberate reforms.”
According to the Minister, the launch is evidence that “A new Nigeria is indeed emerging”one that is “being built by those who believe in her potential, invest in her people, and produce proudly within her borders.”