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Ericsson has celebrated its 150th global anniversary at an event in Lagos, bringing together customers, employees, dignitaries, partners and government representatives. The celebration reflects on Ericsson’s contribution to Nigeria’s telecommunications journey and the role of connectivity in enabling future digital opportunities.
Founded in 1876, Ericsson has evolved alongside the communications industry, from early telecommunications technology to the mobile networks and digital infrastructure that connect people, businesses and societies. Its 150-year milestone celebrates that history of innovation while looking ahead to the technologies shaping the next generation of connectivity, including AI and automation that support the industry’s evolution towards autonomous networks.
Ericsson has been present here in Nigeria since 1978, supporting network deployments. A defining milestone came in 2001, when Ericsson contributed to the launch of Nigeria’s first GSM network. The development helped move the country into a new era of mobile connectivity.
Ericsson’s work in the market has continued to evolve with the industry. In 2022, Ericsson supported the launch of 5G services in Nigeria. In 2024, Ericsson and the Federal Government of Nigeria signed a cooperation framework covering 5G technology development, deployment and innovation, alongside knowledge exchange, capacity building and digital-skills development.
At the event, Ericsson reiterated its commitment to playing an active role in Nigeria’s AI evolution. As demand for mobile data grows and digital services become increasingly sophisticated, Nigeria has an important opportunity to strengthen the foundations of its digital economy. High-performing, programmable networks will be key to enabling new experiences, supporting enterprise innovation and preparing for the opportunities presented by AI.
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 links Ericsson’s global heritage with a locally rooted story of partnership and progress. As Nigeria’s digital needs continue to develop, Ericsson will continue working as a trusted, long-term technology partner, collaborating with customers and the wider ecosystem to support the country’s digital transformation and connectivity ambitions, drawing on its innovation heritage to help shape the future of connectivity in Nigeria and across Africa.
