Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea Sign Landmark Subsea Cable Deal to Boost Regional Connectivity

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs , Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has highlighted a major step forward in regional economic diplomacy following the signing of a landmark digital infrastructure agreement in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The project centers on the development of a subsea fibre-optic cable aimed at expanding broadband capacity, strengthening digital communications, and enhancing regional cybersecurity cooperation. According to Tuggar, the initiative demonstrates how economic diplomacy can translate high-level engagements into tangible infrastructure that drives connectivity and growth.

The agreement builds on the outcomes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit to Malabo in August 2024 and aligns with Nigeria’s broader push to use diplomacy as a tool for economic development. By moving partnerships from policy discussions to practical implementation, the project is expected to improve digital resilience and open up new opportunities for cross-border collaboration and investment within the region.

The agreement on principles was signed by Backbone Connectivity Network Nigeria Ltd (BNC), represented by Alhaji Ibrahim Dikko, and Equatorial Guinea’s Minister of Transport, Telecommunications and Artificial Intelligence Systems, H.E. Honorato Evita Oma. The signing took place under the supervision of Equatorial Guinea’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Business Promotion and Industry, H.E. Gaudencio Mohaba Messu. The engagement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to advancing African-led digital solutions, deepening regional integration, and promoting shared economic growth through improved infrastructure.