12 February 2026
Nigeria has signed a landmark agreement with Equatorial Guinea to develop a subsea fibre-optic cable that will expand broadband capacity and strengthen digital communications across the region.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, described the initiative as a significant advancement in regional economic diplomacy, demonstrating how high-level engagements can be transformed into tangible infrastructure that drives connectivity and growth. The project focuses on enhancing regional cybersecurity cooperation and represents a direct outcome of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's State Visit to Malabo in August 2024.
The principles agreement was signed by Backbone Connectivity Network Nigeria Ltd, represented by Alhaji Ibrahim Dikko, and Equatorial Guinea's Minister of Transport, Telecommunications and Artificial Intelligence Systems, Honourable Evita Oma. The signing ceremony took place under the supervision of Equatorial Guinea's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Business Promotion and Industry, Gaudencio Mohaba Messu.
The agreement forms part of Nigeria's broader strategy to leverage diplomacy as an instrument for economic development. By advancing partnerships from policy discussions to practical implementation, the project is expected to improve digital resilience whilst opening new opportunities for cross-border collaboration and investment. The engagement underscores Nigeria's commitment to advancing African-led digital solutions, deepening regional integration, and promoting shared economic growth through improved infrastructure.
