Equinix, a global leader in digital infrastructure, has announced plans to launch its latest data centre, LG3, in Lagos, Nigeria, during the first quarter of 2026. This $22 million facility is poised to become the first purpose-built Equinix site in West Africa, representing a significant strategic investment. It forms a crucial part of a larger $100 million initiative by Equinix to expand its presence across the African continent over the next two years. The primary objective of LG3 is to provide high-quality infrastructure and advanced connectivity services, designed to support local businesses and attract international companies to the region.

The LG3 data centre will be seamlessly connected with Equinix Fabric, a sophisticated interconnection platform. This integration will enable businesses to efficiently link their physical and digital resources to cloud services and partners across the globe. For companies operating in Nigeria, this means the ability to expand effortlessly, access global networks, and securely connect to various cloud and enterprise services, thereby lessening their dependency on traditional IT systems and fostering a more dynamic digital ecosystem.

Wole Abu, the Managing Director for Equinix in West Africa, emphasized the profound impact of the Lagos data centre, describing it as a pivotal step in bridging Africa’s digital divide. Abu articulated Equinix’s broader vision, stating, “We’re not just building data centres; we’re fostering growth, empowering innovation, and laying the foundation for an interconnected African economy that is prepared to lead on the global stage.”

The LG3 facility holds immense importance for Nigeria’s rapidly expanding tech sector. As Africa’s second-largest economy, Nigeria boasts a vibrant, tech-savvy population, with Lagos serving as the undisputed hub of this digital growth. By offering top-notch data centre services, LG3 aims to enable local startups, financial institutions, and service providers to meet and exceed global standards. This enhanced digital foundation is expected to significantly strengthen key industries such as fintech, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence, driving Nigeria’s digital transformation forward.

Olawale Owoeye, Managing Director at Cedarview, reinforced the value proposition of the new data centre. He highlighted that LG3 will provide businesses with robust connectivity, reliable performance, and unparalleled access to Equinix’s extensive global ecosystem. Owoeye noted that this will empower companies like Cedarview to substantially expand their digital footprint and deliver high-performance solutions to their clientele.

Industry experts agree that the establishment of LG3 will elevate Africa’s standing in the global tech arena. By creating essential connections between Lagos and key subsea cables, LG3 is set to bolster Nigeria’s position as a leading international hub, thereby streamlining cross-border operations and data flow. While Equinix’s considerable investment demonstrates strong confidence in Africa’s burgeoning digital economy, it also underscores future challenges, including the imperative for sustainable operations, robust cybersecurity measures, and effectively managing the escalating demand for cloud and AI infrastructure.