An apparatus includes a processor configured to determine a set of first lanes associated with a PON, select a subset of second lanes from the set, and perform lane bonding by bonding the subset to an ONU. A transmitter coupled to the processor is configured to transmit a lane bonding assignment to the ONU. An ONU includes a plurality of receivers configured to receive a first message comprising an announcement indicating an OLT lane capability. A processor coupled to the receivers is configured to process the first message and generate a second message in response to the first message, wherein the second message comprises a report indicating an ONU lane capability and prompting lane bonding in a PON. A plurality of transmitters coupled to the processor is configured to transmit the second message to the OLT.