By JKNewsMedia
GLOBAL TELECOMMUNCATION leaders gathered in Abuja to address the urgent need for stronger submarine cable resilience as disruptions increasingly threaten digital connectivity.
The 2025 International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit, co-hosted by technology company Globacom and Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), stressed the importance of fortifying undersea networks.
Globacom, as the sole owner of the Glo 1 submarine cable, joined international stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing cable infrastructure reliability.
The summit spotlighted the pivotal role of undersea cables in sustaining global communication, with a particular focus on ensuring uninterrupted service for consumers and businesses.
Built in 2010 to link Europe and Africa, Glo 1 has been instrumental in digital connectivity across Nigeria and West Africa.
In 2024, when fiber cuts severely impacted telecommunications across the region, Glo 1 remained operational, mitigating economic disruptions.
The cable’s recent capacity upgrade has further strengthened its ability to provide stable and consistent service.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, opened the two-day summit by emphasising the vital role of submarine cables in global digital infrastructure.
“Submarine cables form the backbone of global digital connectivity, carrying over 95% of international data traffic.
Yet, despite their significance, these infrastructures remain vulnerable to disruptions—whether from natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, accidental damage, or evolving cyber threats,” Tijani stated.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure in alignment with national resilience strategies.
Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria has prioritised digital expansion, with policies designed to foster innovation and economic growth.
The Minister detailed government efforts to enhance cybersecurity and protect critical telecommunications assets from emerging threats.
ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, stressed the increasing dependence on undersea cables and the necessity of substantial investment in their maintenance and expansion.
“The global undersea cable network is a cornerstone of innovation, and ensuring its resilience is essential to meaningful digital inclusion,” she said.
Prof. Sandra Maximiano, Co-Chair of ITU’s Advisory Board, addressed the challenges of preventing cable failures and the need for better infrastructure planning.
He called for increased availability of repair ships, spare parts, and stockpiles in regions with lower submarine cable densities.
Regulatory frameworks, he noted, must align with the evolving needs of cable resilience.
The summit featured a series of panel discussions, where industry experts explored ways to strengthen submarine cable security, reduce downtime, and implement best practices for safeguarding digital networks.
Stakeholders reached a consensus on the necessity of proactive investments to mitigate risks and ensure uninterrupted global connectivity.
