Quest Merchant Bank has been appointed as Transaction Advisor for Project BRIDGE (Broadband Infrastructure Development for Digital Economy), a landmark national broadband initiative spearheaded by the Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani.
Project BRIDGE is a transformative digital infrastructure programme aimed at significantly expanding Nigeria’s fibre-optic network and accelerating broadband penetration nationwide. The initiative will see the deployment of approximately 90,000 kilometres of open-access fibre-optic cable, strengthening connectivity and enabling inclusive digital and economic growth across the country.
In its role as Transaction Advisor, Quest Merchant Bank will collaborate with FMCIDE and the Project BRIDGE Implementation Unit to structure and execute the project’s financial and commercial framework. This includes developing bankable investment models, driving investor engagement, and designing a robust public–private partnership (PPP) framework to ensure efficient delivery and long-term sustainability.
Speaking on the appointment, the Acting Managing Director/CEO of Quest Merchant Bank, Afolabi Olorode, stated:
“Project BRIDGE marks a pivotal step in reinforcing Nigeria’s digital backbone and unlocking the vast potential of the digital economy. We are honoured to partner with FMCIDE under the leadership of Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani and are committed to deploying our expertise in transaction advisory and infrastructure finance to build a strong, investable framework that will attract private capital and support sustainable national development.”
Also commenting, Yetunde Falore, Head of Investment Banking at Quest Merchant Bank, noted:
“Nigeria’s digital economy is at a defining moment, and initiatives like Project BRIDGE are critical to expanding connectivity, deepening inclusion, and driving sustainable growth. We are proud to contribute our expertise to ensure timely, efficient, and successful project delivery in our role as Transaction Advisor.”
Project BRIDGE aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises digital infrastructure expansion, enhanced productivity through technology, and increased private-sector participation in national development. By boosting broadband access and strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem, the initiative is expected to unlock opportunities across key sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, commerce, and innovation.
As part of its mandate, Quest Merchant Bank will support the Honourable Minister and the Project Implementation Team in structuring and delivering a financially viable Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). This will involve shortlisting qualified private sector partners to collaborate with the Nigerian Government—backed by the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to establish a world-class, private sector-led wholesale open-access fibre company. The project targets SPV establishment and groundbreaking by Q3 2026.
About Quest Merchant Bank
Quest Merchant Bank is a licensed Nigerian merchant bank offering a broad range of services, including corporate banking, treasury, agency services, financial advisory, and capital markets solutions to corporate, institutional, and public sector clients. The Bank is driven by a commitment to strong governance, disciplined execution, and sustainable value creation.
