Stanley Jegede, Executive Chairman of Phase3 Telecom, has called for accelerated investment in cross-border and inland digital infrastructure as a critical driver of Africa’s economic transformation.

Speaking on Thursday at the Africa Spotlight panel during CCT Global 2025, held at The Alex Hotel in Dublin, Jegede addressed a global audience that included senior executives from Meta, Google, Microsoft, and other international technology and network firms.

“Africa’s future rests on how fast we can close the digital divide,” Jegede stated. “Cross-border infrastructure is not just about cables; it is about unlocking opportunities, advancing equity, and enabling regional prosperity.”

Moderated by telecoms industry analyst Russell Southwood, the session explored the structural, regulatory, and financial challenges surrounding digital infrastructure in Africa. Participants unanimously emphasised the need for regional cooperation, streamlined regulation, and long-term investment strategies to bridge connectivity gaps.

With over two decades of experience in the telecoms sector, Jegede highlighted how enhanced interconnectivity between African nations is vital for inclusive digital growth. He stressed that collaborative efforts among governments, private sector players, and multilateral institutions are essential to expand broadband access and reduce the cost of internet services across the continent.

Under Jegede’s leadership, Phase3 Telecom has deployed critical fibre optic infrastructure across Nigeria and West Africa and diversified into integrated satellite broadband to serve remote and underserved regions. The company operates one of the most robust aerial fibre networks across key economic corridors and continues to push for scalable, secure, and future-ready digital infrastructure.

“As Africa positions itself for a digitally driven future, cross-border collaboration and regulatory harmonisation will be essential,” he said. “Phase3 is championing initiatives that promote resilient connectivity and broader digital inclusion.”

The 2025 edition of CCT Global, a premier international summit on telecoms, cloud computing, and content infrastructure, convened global thought leaders to assess how emerging technologies and infrastructure models can accelerate digital transformation in developing markets.

Jegede reaffirmed Phase3 Telecom’s commitment to driving pan-African digital inclusion, advocating for shared infrastructure models, innovative public-private partnerships, and progressive policies.

“Our work continues beyond networks,” Jegede concluded. “It’s about building the backbone for an inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive Africa.”