Bauchi Scraps Broadband Right-of-Way Fees to Attract Investment

Bauchi State has abolished right-of-way charges for broadband deployment across its territory, offering telecommunications companies and Internet Service Providers an incentive to expand connectivity and invest in the state's digital economy.

Governor Bala Mohammed approved the policy as part of a strategy to strengthen technology infrastructure, encourage innovation and create economic opportunities for young people.

The announcement came on Tuesday through Deputy Governor Auwal Jatau at the launch of the Bauchi State Innovation and Startup Law 2026, which also featured the graduation of more than 100 youths trained in cybersecurity.

Mohammed invited telecom operators to take advantage of the waiver, declaring: “We are sending a clear message to telecommunications companies and Internet Service Providers: come to Bauchi, serve our communities at zero cost and connect our people to the world.”

The initiative seeks to make network expansion more attractive by removing right-of-way fees. Its significance lies in the opportunities better connectivity could create for businesses, public services and residents seeking access to the digital economy.

The state is complementing its infrastructure plans with data management guidelines and institutional frameworks to support digital transformation. The administration sees technology as increasingly central to business operations, public service delivery and economic participation.

Meanwhile, the cybersecurity graduates have completed approximately six months of training and earned internationally recognised CompTIA Security+ certifications. Through a partnership with cybersecurity organisation Protexxa, the government has established employment pathways for the trainees.

Mohammed said the arrangement would ensure that at least 80 per cent of the graduates were placed in employment, adding: “Your skills are in high demand, and we have already built a bridge to connect you directly to global opportunities.”

Together, the broadband waiver, startup legislation and cybersecurity programme reflect Bauchi's push to build a stronger technology ecosystem. The measure of success will be whether these initiatives attract investment, extend internet access and translate technical training into lasting employment opportunities.