Quest Merchant Bank has been appointed as Transaction Advisor for Project BRIDGE, a broadband infrastructure initiative of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), led by Bosun Tijani, the minister.
Project BRIDGE, short for Broadband Infrastructure Development for Digital Economy, is designed to deepen Nigeria’s digital backbone through the deployment of about 90,000 kilometres of open-access fibre-optic cables nationwide.
The initiative is expected to boost broadband penetration, strengthen connectivity and drive inclusive economic growth.
Under the mandate, Quest Merchant Bank will work with the ministry and the Project Implementation Unit to structure the project’s financial and commercial framework.
This includes developing bankable investment models, engaging investors and designing a public-private partnership structure to ensure efficient execution and sustainability.
Afolabi Olorode, acting managing director, described the project as a critical intervention for Nigeria’s digital economy.
“Project BRIDGE represents a critical step in strengthening Nigeria’s digital backbone and unlocking the immense opportunities within the country’s digital economy. We are honoured to partner with the FMCIDE under the leadership of Honourable Minister, Dr Bosun Tijani on this important initiative,” he said.
He added that the bank would leverage its expertise in infrastructure finance to develop “a robust and investable framework that will attract private capital and support long-term national development.”
Also speaking, Yetunde Falore, head of Investment Banking at Quest Merchant Bank, said the project comes at a defining moment for Nigeria’s digital economy.
“Nigeria’s digital economy is entering a defining phase, and infrastructure initiatives such as Project BRIDGE will play a central role in expanding connectivity, deepening digital inclusion, and supporting sustainable economic growth,” she stated.
Falore noted that the bank would focus on ensuring the timely and efficient delivery of the project in its advisory role.
The initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises digital infrastructure expansion and private sector participation in critical national assets.
