MainOne, a leading provider of telecommunications and network services, has achieved a monumental milestone by landing the 2Africa submarine cable system at Qua Iboe, Akwa Ibom State, marking a historic moment for Nigeria’s connectivity landscape. This event signifies not just the introduction of the world’s largest cable system, with a staggering length of 45,000 kilometers, but also a pivotal shift in digital accessibility and infrastructure development for Akwa Ibom State, as well as other regions in Nigeria that have historically been underserved or completely unserved. By connecting Nigeria directly with Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa, this submarine cable, boasting a capacity of 180 terabits per second, is set to revolutionize the country’s digital ecosystem.
The deployment of the 2Africa cable system is a game-changer for Nigeria’s digital landscape. It promises to significantly boost the proliferation of advanced digital technologies such as 4G and 5G networks, and fixed broadband, thereby catalyzing digital transformation across crucial sectors of the economy. This transformation is anticipated to yield substantial improvements in areas such as business operations, education, healthcare, and more, fostering an environment where digital innovation and technological advancements flourish.
Mr. Abayomi Adebanjo, the Regional Business Head of MainOne, an Equinix Company, articulated the strategic vision behind this landmark project. He emphasized that the decision to establish the first submarine cable landing system in a Nigerian coastal state outside of Lagos, and notably, in the Niger Delta Region, was driven by a commitment to democratize broadband access across Nigeria. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by delivering robust broadband internet capacity to regions that have long been marginalized in terms of connectivity. By enhancing access to high-speed internet, the project is expected to empower local businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and various other sectors, enabling them to leverage digital technologies to achieve their full potential.
The significance of this project extends beyond immediate access to high-speed internet. Adebanjo highlighted that the landing of the 2Africa cable in Nigeria’s South-South region will contribute to the country’s cable diversity, aligning with the objectives outlined in the National Broadband Plan. This strategic move is set to bolster Nigeria’s digital infrastructure resilience, ensuring that the nation is better equipped to handle potential disruptions and maintain uninterrupted connectivity for its citizens.
The developmental impact of the 2Africa cable’s landing has been acknowledged by state officials, including Akwa Ibom’s Governor, Pastor Umo Eno. He hailed the project as a transformative development that positions the state as a hub of ICT innovation and economic growth on a global scale. Governor Eno expressed his administration’s commitment to supporting creative and entrepreneurial ventures, particularly those that leverage the new submarine cable infrastructure. He sees this development as a critical component of his ARISE agenda, aimed at driving technological advancement and economic growth within the state.
Governor Eno also called upon the youth of Akwa Ibom to seize the opportunities presented by this infrastructure. He underscored the potential of the fibre optic cable to provide high-speed broadband access throughout the state, encouraging young people to explore their potential within the Information and Communication Technology sector. This call to action reflects a broader vision for the state and the country at large—a vision where digital connectivity serves as a foundation for innovation, economic development, and social progress.
The landing of the 2Africa submarine cable system in Akwa Ibom represents a significant leap forward for Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. It is a testament to the collaborative efforts of government bodies, private sector entities like MainOne, and international partners, all working towards a common goal of enhancing digital connectivity and fostering an environment conducive to technological innovation. As this project unfolds, it promises to unlock new possibilities for economic growth, societal advancement, and the empowerment of communities across Nigeria, setting a new standard for digital inclusivity and connectivity on the African continent.
Source: This Day Live
