Ericsson has marked its 150th anniversary with a celebration in Lagos, reflecting on its contributions to Nigeria’s telecommunications industry and reaffirming its commitment to supporting the country’s digital transformation.
The event brought together customers, employees, dignitaries, business partners and government representatives to commemorate the Swedish telecommunications giant’s 150-year journey in communications and connectivity, while highlighting the opportunities shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital economy.
Founded in 1876, Ericsson has evolved alongside the global telecommunications industry, from early communication technologies to modern mobile networks and digital infrastructure connecting people, businesses and societies. The milestone celebrates the company’s history of innovation and its continued focus on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, as the industry advances towards autonomous networks.
Ericsson’s presence in Nigeria dates back to 1978, when it began supporting telecommunications network deployments in the country. One of its significant contributions came in 2001, when the company supported the launch of Nigeria’s first GSM network, marking a major turning point in the country's mobile telecommunications development.
Since then, Ericsson has continued to support the evolution of Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure. In 2022, the company supported the launch of 5G services in the country. Two years later, in 2024, Ericsson and the Federal Government of Nigeria signed a cooperation framework covering 5G technology development, deployment and innovation, as well as knowledge exchange, capacity building and digital skills development.
At the Lagos anniversary event, Ericsson reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s growing artificial intelligence ecosystem. With mobile data consumption increasing and digital services becoming more sophisticated, the company highlighted the importance of strengthening the country's digital infrastructure to unlock new economic opportunities.
Ericsson noted that high-performing, programmable networks would play a critical role in enabling advanced digital experiences, supporting enterprise innovation and providing the connectivity foundations required for wider AI adoption.
Majda Lahlou Kassi, VP and Head of Ericsson West and Southern Africa, said: “As we celebrate 150 years of Ericsson, we are not only reflecting on our past; we are looking ahead to Nigeria’s future. Nigeria is a crucial market on the African continent, and we believe in its potential. We are proud of our long-standing presence here and look forward to playing an active role, alongside our customers, partners and stakeholders, in defining the country’s digital future.”
The anniversary underscores the connection between Ericsson’s global history and its long-standing partnerships in Nigeria. As the country continues to expand its digital capabilities, the company said it would maintain its role as a long-term technology partner, working with customers and industry stakeholders to advance connectivity and support Nigeria’s broader digital transformation ambitions.
Across the world, Ericsson’s high-performing, programmable networks provide connectivity for billions of people every day. For 150 years, the company has pioneered technologies that enable communication, offering mobile connectivity and digital solutions to telecommunications service providers and enterprises.
Working alongside customers and partners, Ericsson continues to develop technologies aimed at shaping the next generation of global connectivity and making the digital world of tomorrow a reality.
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