The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has announced plans to support a major wireless infrastructure project in Nigeria and three other West African countries.

According to the agency, the project will deploy about 1,500 mobile communication base stations across Nigeria, Benin, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

The initiative is expected to improve internet and mobile access in rural and underserved communities still relying on outdated 2G and 3G networks.

USTDA said the project would help close the digital gap between urban and rural areas while supporting business activities and economic growth.

Vanu Inc. was selected for the project, while Georgia-based Vernonburg Group LLC will provide technical support for the feasibility study.

USTDA Deputy Director Thomas Hardy said the project would provide trusted digital infrastructure and create opportunities for American companies in West Africa.

The agency added that the deployment could improve education, healthcare, agriculture and commerce in affected communities across the region.