Airtel Opens Second Internet Gateway in Nigeria via 2Africa Cable

Nigeria’s global internet connectivity is getting a major structural upgrade as Airtel Nigeria moves to open an additional international traffic route through the 2Africa submarine cable landing in Akwa Ibom State. This development reduces the country’s long-standing dependence on Lagos as the primary entry point for international data, setting the stage for improved speed and performance for users across the nation.

Speaking at a media roundtable in Lagos, Airtel Nigeria CEO Dinesh Balsingh highlighted the strategic value of the expansion, noting that it strengthens network stability and service quality. The new connection, routed through Kwa Ibo, leverages the 45,000-kilometer 2Africa cable system, which links 33 countries across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. By introducing a southern access gateway, Airtel is creating more direct data pathways, particularly benefiting regions in both northern and southern Nigeria.

The added breakout route also provides a safeguard against service interruptions tied to congestion or technical issues in Lagos. Key sectors such as banking, startups, and public services are expected to benefit from more consistent connectivity. Airtel is reinforcing this effort with ongoing fibre infrastructure expansion nationwide, following a significant increase in capital investment last year aimed at strengthening its network backbone.