Sanwo-Olu Applauds MTN, Dell Technologies as Nigeria’s Largest Data Centre Launches in Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended MTN Nigeria and Dell Technologies for unveiling the Dabengwa Data Centre, now the largest in Nigeria and West Africa. The world-class facility, inaugurated in Lagos, marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Governor Sanwo-Olu hailed the investment as a bold statement of Nigeria’s growing relevance in the global digital economy. “With this facility, MTN is reinforcing Nigeria’s position as the digital backbone of West Africa. This is a game-changing platform for our young talents, start-ups, and enterprises,” she said, noting that Lagos now holds “bragging rights” as the host of the continent’s most advanced modular data infrastructure.

Built in collaboration with Dell Technologies, the Dabengwa Data Centre is a prefabricated modular facility composed of 96 containers in its first phase. It delivers cutting-edge cloud services, secure data storage, and high-performance computing for Nigerian and West African enterprises — all within a locally hosted, AI-optimized environment.

The launch also saw the unveiling of the MTN Cloud Platform, designed to provide agile, cost-efficient cloud solutions and accelerate digital adoption across key sectors, including fintech, education, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, described the facility as “excellent” and praised MTN for building the “digital foundation for Nigeria’s modern economy.” He emphasized the importance of local infrastructure in reducing capital flight, fostering trust, and boosting productivity.

“This is the kind of infrastructure we need to enable true digital sovereignty,” Tijani added.

Also present was the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, represented by Engr. Babagaba Digima. He described the launch as a “significant milestone in Nigeria’s technological independence,” and assured stakeholders of the NCC’s continued support for innovation, data protection, and robust internet infrastructure.

Valued at approximately $150 million, the Dabengwa Data Centre features AI-driven energy optimisation that intelligently manages workloads and integrates green energy sources, significantly reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.

Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, lauded the dedication of the teams behind the project, calling the launch a “significant day for Nigeria.” MTN Nigeria CEO, Dr. Karl Toriola, said the data centre reflects MTN’s ambition to transition from a traditional telco into a leading technology provider, aligned with national digital policies.

“This project meets the rising demand for enterprise-grade infrastructure that supports innovation and economic growth,” Toriola said.

Lynda Saint-Nwafor, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at MTN Nigeria, added that the newly unveiled MTN Cloud would be backed by the MTN Cloud Accelerator for Africa, launching in the coming weeks to support startups with tools, training, and global access.

As Nigeria’s data centre market continues to grow — expected to expand from 136.7 MW in 2025 to 279.4 MW by 2030, with over $630 million in investment already committed — the Dabengwa facility sets a new benchmark for scalable, secure, and sustainable digital infrastructure in Africa.

The centre also aligns with recent regulations by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which require sensitive government, financial, and health data to be stored locally — a move that strengthens Nigeria’s digital sovereignty and investor confidence.

With the launch of the Dabengwa Data Centre, MTN Nigeria has positioned itself at the heart of the country’s digital future — enabling innovation, enhancing cybersecurity, and powering Nigeria’s rise as a regional tech powerhouse.