Equinix to expand network of 240 data centers in 66 markets to Lagos

Chief Executive Officer of MainOne, Funke Opeke has revealed Equinix’s intention to expand its network of 240 data centers in 66 markets to Lagos recognizing Lagos’s potential of becoming the digital infrastructure hub of Africa.

Speaking during the official launch of MainOne’s new Data Center, “Lekki II”, CEO Funke noted that plans are far advanced for the expansion to the Lekki Campus to accommodate the requirements of global hyperscalers and regional businesses as the company expands to connect the over 10,000 companies already on the Equinix platform.

“These businesses will now have access to our region and local businesses will come on board to interconnect with them,” she said.

Following closely on the heels of its acquisition by Equinix, the world’s digital infrastructure company, the new data center is expected to drive the acceleration of digital services in the state.  

In line with MainOne’s existing assets, the new Lekki II Data Center offers open access connectivity to all the leading telecom networks in Nigeria with an established presence on the Lekki campus. Customers will enjoy access to a rich ecosystem of telecom operators, global networks, financial services companies, and content providers not just in Nigeria, but across West Africa.

MDXi currently has more than 5MW of capacity across four facilities in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cote d’Ivoire totaling 64,000 square feet (5,950 sqm).

In May 2021, the company said it would increase the capacity of its data centers form around 700 racks to 900 racks over the next year, with an additional 300 racks by 2023 if demand is sustained.

Launched in 2010, MaineOne provides network and connectivity services across West Africa and provides colocation through its MXDi brand. Equinix acquired the company in December 2021for at $320 million and expanded operations into the African continent for the first time.

The deal closed earlier this week. Equinix said the completion of the deal “augments Equinix's long-term strategy to become a leading African carrier-neutral digital infrastructure company.”

“Equinix believes MainOne, headquartered in Lagos, to be one of the most exciting technology businesses to emerge from Africa, and Lagos is rapidly becoming a key connectivity hub for the wider West Africa region,” it said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “We can see that Equinix is now poised not only to be the biggest digital infrastructure player in Nigeria but in Africa, and we welcome Equinix to the heartbeat of the country, the Centre of Excellence, the largest economy in Africa and the technology transformation hub of Africa.”

By: Kanto Okanta