Equinix Commits $140 Million to Expand Digital Infrastructure in Southern Nigeria

In a bold move that signals growing confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy, global data center giant Equinix has announced a $140 million investment to expand internet infrastructure in Southern Nigeria. The initiative, spanning over the next two years, is aimed at bolstering connectivity, driving digital inclusion, and supporting regional economic growth, particularly in underrepresented areas outside Lagos.

Equinix has announced a $140 million investment to expand internet infrastructure across southern Nigeria. It’s a massive step that is not just about fiber cables and data centers it’s about connecting people, businesses, and entire communities to faster, more reliable internet.

The investment will fund two major data centers: LG3 in Lagos and PR1 in Port Harcourt. The one in Port Harcourt is especially groundbreaking it will host a landing station for the 2Africa subsea cable, which is one of the largest undersea internet cables ever built. This marks the first time a cable landing station is being built outside of Lagos, and it’s a big deal for digital equity in Nigeria.

Wole Abu, the newly appointed Managing Director of Equinix West Africa, shared that this is more than just business ”it’s about building a stronger digital ecosystem for West Africa. We’re here to support the future, he said. We believe in Nigeria’s potential, not just in Lagos, but across the South-South and South-East regions too.

Nigeria is Africa’s most connected country with over 122 million internet users, but access is still unequal. Most of the internet infrastructure is clustered in a few urban areas leaving many parts of the country with slower speeds and limited access. This investment is targeting that middle ground, filling the infrastructure gap between where the internet arrives and where everyday people and businesses need it.

So what does this mean for the average Nigerian or business owner?

For starters, faster internet. But it goes beyond that. It means startups in Port Harcourt can build apps that actually load fast. It means remote workers can join video calls without freezing. It means banks, hospitals, and schools can move more of their services online without struggling with poor connections.

This also lines up with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan, which aims for 70% broadband penetration by 2025. Equinix’s move shows that private companies are stepping up to help make that goal a reality.

In the long run, this expansion could position Nigeria especially Southern Nigeria as a regional digital powerhouse. It gives global businesses more reason to invest here. It gives local innovators the tools to compete globally. And it gives everyday users a smoother, more connected experience.

The internet is the foundation of the modern economy. And with this $140 million bet on Southern Nigeria, Equinix is helping to lay the groundwork for a more connected, inclusive future.