Data centre services giant, Equinix, has unveiled plans to inject $140 million into strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure over the next two years. The company said the investment would focus on improving connectivity in southern Nigeria, particularly in Port Harcourt and Lagos.
This move follows Equinix’s $320 million acquisition of MainOne in 2022, which served as its entry point into the West African market. The new initiative is designed to decentralise Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, which has largely been concentrated in Lagos, and foster greater access across underserved regions.
As part of the expansion, Equinix will establish its first data centre in Port Harcourt and scale operations in its third Lagos facility. According to Equinix West Africa’s Managing Director, Wole Abu, the goal is not only to increase capacity but also to ensure equitable digital access across Nigeria.
The Port Harcourt facility, named PR1, will also become the country’s first landing station for Meta’s 2Africa submarine cable, a development expected to significantly boost the region’s bandwidth and digital capabilities. This strategic move underscores Equinix’s broader commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s digital economy.
While Nigeria has made substantial progress in mobile and data infrastructure since the liberalisation of its telecom sector in 2001, the bulk of infrastructure remains heavily centred in Lagos. The National Broadband Plan targets 70% broadband penetration by 2025, but current levels stand at only 45%, leaving many regions, particularly inland areas, underserved. Industry leaders, including former Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, have praised Equinix’s move, highlighting its potential to foster inclusive growth and support the nation’s digital ambitions.
In addition to expanding infrastructure, Equinix is focused on building resilience within Nigeria’s digital landscape. The company has adopted a multi-cable routing strategy to minimise service disruptions caused by subsea cable damage.
The Federal Government is also backing such efforts with the Broadband Alliance initiative aimed at expanding fibre connectivity nationwide. Equinix’s latest investment not only addresses existing digital infrastructure gaps but also signals a critical step toward decentralising internet access, spurring economic growth, and narrowing Nigeria’s persistent digital divide.