**Airtel Strengthens Nigeria's Internet Backbone** Imagine a moment where the entire country's internet comes to a grinding halt due to a single cable cut in Lagos. This nightmare scenario is a pressing reality for Nigeria, as nearly all of the country's international data flows through a single point in the commercial hub. But, all hope is not lost. Airtel Nigeria has announced plans to launch a second international internet breakout point in Akwa Ibom state, a move that will significantly boost the country's internet resilience. The new gateway will tap into the massive 2Africa submarine cable, joining MainOne as the other subsea cable outside of Lagos. This development is a direct response to Nigeria's vulnerability to local cable cuts or station glitches, which can cripple the entire country's internet. By opening a new path in the South-South, Airtel is creating a bypass that will improve speed and reliability for the North and South, ensuring the country stays online even if Lagos faces a disruption. Airtel's push to expand its infrastructure has been a game-changer. The company has added over 2,200 network sites since late 2023, expanding its fibre network by 25%. With 4G now available at 99.9% of its sites, Airtel is also doubling its 5G presence to cover Nigeria's top 20 cities within the next year. This is a bold move that will undoubtedly shape the country's digital landscape. The implications of this development cannot be overstated. A robust internet backbone is essential for a digital economy that cannot afford the massive subsea cable outages seen in previous years. By diversifying these entry points, Airtel is paving the way for a more resilient and reliable network that will support the country's growing digital economy. In the words of Airtel's CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, this move is a strategic play to ensure Nigeria stays connected regardless of where a cable might break. By adding satellite partnerships with Starlink to its new subsea route, Airtel is building a multi-layered system designed to keep Nigeria connected. This is a major victory for internet stability, and we can only wait with bated breath to see the impact of this development on the country's digital landscape.