Ericsson's Nigerian unit has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian government to establish a cooperative framework for the development, deployment, and innovation of 5G technology.
Through this agreement, Ericsson Nigeria and the government will explore how 5G can be leveraged to support the country’s digital transformation, enhance economic growth, and improve public services. The MoU outlines goals such as knowledge exchange in the tech sector, capacity building, the establishment of innovation hubs and tech incubators, and efforts to boost digital literacy and skills development in Nigeria.
The MoU was signed during a visit by a Nigerian government delegation to Ericsson’s global headquarters in Stockholm. The delegation, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, included Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani, regional state leaders, and senior officials from Nigerian ICT and communications organizations.
Patrick Johansson, head of Ericsson Middle East and Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We look forward to working closely with the Nigerian government to harness the potential of 5G for businesses, citizens, and the nation's digital competitiveness."
On the same day, MTN Nigeria opened a 5G Digital Experience Center at its headquarters in Abuja to demonstrate 5G applications and services to consumers.
5G was introduced to Nigeria in 2022 when MTN launched its network in select areas of Lagos, in collaboration with Ericsson. By mid-2023, MTN had expanded its 5G sites across 13 cities, while Airtel Nigeria began commercial 5G services shortly thereafter. Meanwhile, Mafab Communications, another 5G license holder, held a launch ceremony but has yet to offer commercial services.
