The Nigerian Ministry of Communications and the ITU convened the inaugural International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit, advocating collective action to mitigate global submarine cable disruptions. ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the significant role of submarine cables in the digital economy’s growth, noting an expectation for it to reach $16.5 trillion by 2028. The summit is attended by over 300 delegates, highlighting global commitment to enhance digital infrastructure.
The Nigerian Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, alongside the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), has emphasized the necessity of collective action to combat disruptions in submarine cables during the inaugural ITU International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit in Abuja. The disruption of submarine cables poses significant threats to the growth of the global digital economy, which relies heavily on these cables for connectivity.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted that submarine cables provide 95% of the backbone for the digital economy, projecting its value to reach $16.5 trillion by 2028. She noted a monumental shift in internet usage over the past two decades, escalating from one billion users in 2005 to 5.5 billion last year, underscoring the need for resilient infrastructure.
Despite the importance of submarine cables, approximately 200 disruptions occur annually, complicating repairs that impact the global economy. Bogdan-Martin urged for a holistic approach involving technology, business, and policy to address these challenges effectively, appreciating Nigeria’s role in hosting the summit.
Prof. Sandra Maximiano, Co-Chair of the ITU Advisory Board, stressed the importance of submarine cables in the economy, reflecting on cable disruptions that affected several West African nations last year. She indicated that Nigeria’s underwater cable systems play a critical role, serving as vital links for economic connectivity in the region.
Nigerian Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani remarked on the global nature of submarine cable disruptions, which impact various sectors, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership. He pledged to protect critical infrastructures and facilitate global access to broadband, signaling a commitment to economic revitalization through digital means.
The two-day summit has attracted over 300 delegates from the 194 ITU member countries, including high-ranking officials from the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency, marking a significant step toward international cooperation in addressing submarine cable issues.
In conclusion, the maiden ITU International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit highlights the critical need for global collaboration to address submarine cable disruptions that threaten the growth of the digital economy. With significant advancements in internet user statistics and a projected rise in the digital economy’s value, it is essential to implement resilient infrastructures. The commitment from Nigerian leaders and ICT stakeholders is poised to foster a cooperative approach to tackle such challenges.
Original Source: nannews.ng
