BCN–Equatorial Guinea Digital Deal Reflects Tinubu’s Economic Diplomacy Drive — Tuggar
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has described the digital infrastructure partnership between Backbone Connectivity Network Nigeria Ltd (BCN) and the Government of Equatorial Guinea as a clear reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic diplomacy drive.
Tuggar said the agreement underscores the President’s sustained efforts to stimulate economic growth, support Nigerian enterprises, and boost investor confidence, noting that these objectives remain central to Nigeria’s expanding foreign economic engagements.
The minister spoke in Malabo during the signing of an agreement for the development of telecommunications infrastructure to serve Equatorial Guinea. The project involves the deployment of a subsea fibre-optic cable aimed at expanding broadband capacity, strengthening digital communications, and enhancing regional cybersecurity cooperation.
According to Tuggar, the initiative is a direct outcome of President Tinubu’s official visit to Equatorial Guinea in August 2024, during which several bilateral agreements were reached. He explained that the telecommunications project represents a practical implementation of those commitments and a step toward deeper economic and digital connectivity across Africa.
The agreement on principles was signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Dikko on behalf of Backbone Connectivity Network Nigeria Ltd, while Equatorial Guinea’s Minister of Transport, Telecommunications and Artificial Intelligence Systems, Honorato Evita Oma, signed for his government.
Under the agreement, BCN is expected to play a key role in expanding digital infrastructure, improving connectivity, and strengthening cybersecurity capabilities in the region.
The signing ceremony was supervised by Equatorial Guinea’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Business Promotion and Industry, Gaudencio Mohaba Messu. It was witnessed by Ambassador Tuggar; Equatorial Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Simeón Oyono Esono Angüe; and senior government officials from both countries.
President Tinubu’s 2024 visit to Malabo was aimed at expanding Nigeria’s economic engagement with Central Africa while promoting Africa-led solutions to development challenges. Officials say the new digital infrastructure project signals growing momentum in regional integration and technology-driven development on the continent.
