Nigeria, often lauded for its immense economic potential, struggles with the formidable challenge of extending effective broadband services to all its regions, particularly unserved/underserved rural and suburban areas. Despite strategies such as enhanced licensing regimes for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and the adoption of shared infrastructure policies, significant connectivity gaps remain. This research seeks to examine the issues surrounding broadband provision in Nigeria through three focal questions: the role of governance across multiple levels in broadband delivery, the enduring barriers — such as corruption and governance inefficiency — to its effective rollout, and the impact of the nation's industrial policy in telecommunications on broadband availability and efficacy. Employing a qualitative approach, the study engaged 26 participants from diverse sectors – including academics, ISP personnel, and policymakers – and conducted an analysis of archival government documents. Grounded in institutionalist political economy framework, the research offers a comprehensive view of Nigeria's telecommunications environment. The study brings to the fore a combination of factors like corruption, governance, and institutional barriers, revealing how they are rooted in Nigeria's historical and socio-political fabric. It also extends the traditional understanding of governance, highlighting its multi-faceted roles beyond policy execution to include regulation and oversight. The research culminates in actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders, emphasising the need for coherent, well-executed industrial policies, and suggesting a shift in focus from policy justification to its practical implementation. Structured across seven chapters, this thesis offers empirical evidence, theoretical advancements, and practical guidelines aimed at fostering an interconnected, inclusive, and effective broadband infrastructure in Nigeria.
