Faster internet coming as Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta lands two undersea cables in two Nigerian states

Meta, owned by Mark Zuckerberg, is set to deploy two submarine cables to boost Nigeria's digital landscape, with landings planned in Lagos and Akwa Ibom states.

Abdullahi Kashifu, Director General of the National Information Technology Development of Nigeria, disclosed this during the Global Tech conference on Friday, November 17, 2023.

He stressed that the initiative is part of the Nigerian government’s strategy to enhance digital infrastructure and promote increased broadband access.

Kashifu stated that this aligns with the efforts to move into the vanguard of the digital era.

The announcement comes after a Meta delegation visited the National Assembly Complex and was welcomed by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.

Kalu expressed optimism about the investments of Meta Platforms in submarine cables, which would bring development to Nigeria.

Punch reports that Kojo Boakye, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy for Africa and Director for West Africa, Adaora Ikenze, highlighted the importance of the partnership between the tech company and the Nigerian government in boosting digital connectivity and tech advancement.

The two submarine cables by Meta came after Google’s 12,000 Equiano undersea cable landed in April last year.

The Deputy Speaker appreciated the tech firm’s contribution in Nigeria, especially in fibre optic cables, mobile partnerships, and business support for entrepreneurs and SMEs.

Kalu stated: “The news of the 45,000km subsea cable landing is inspiring and commendable, given its potential socio-economic impact on the country.”