Vice President Kashim Shettima has led a delegation of Nigerian officials to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with telecom giant Ericsson for the establishment of a 5G Innovation Lab, according to a statement from the Presidency.
The agreement, which aims to position Nigeria among the leading global users of 5G technology, is intended to enhance the country’s technological capabilities and boost productivity. The announcement was made by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President.
The MoU was signed on Friday at Ericsson’s Global Headquarters and Research and Development Lab in Kista, Sweden. Vice President Shettima witnessed the signing, along with Ericsson’s Senior Vice President and Head of Business Area Middle East and Africa. The Nigerian government was represented by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, while Peter Olusoji Ogundele, Country Manager for Ericsson Nigeria, signed on behalf of the telecom company.
5G, the fifth generation of cellular networks, is known to be 100 times faster than 4G, offering significant opportunities for advancements in business, technology, and everyday life globally.
Minister Tijani highlighted the significance of the MoU, expressing confidence that Nigeria will harness the potential of 5G technology to drive rapid economic growth. He noted that the Innovation Lab would focus on creating 5G-based applications for sectors such as agriculture, mining, and education, with the broader goal of enhancing connectivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
Tijani added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification through digital technology.
During a briefing on Ericsson’s technological advancements, including radio spectrum, standardization, and cybersecurity, Vice President Shettima inquired about the potential of 5G technology to enhance security in Nigeria’s oil sector by preventing oil theft and pipeline vandalization—key concerns for the country’s economic management.
In addition to the Ericsson deal, Shettima held high-level discussions with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Stockholm. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding trade, fostering strategic partnerships, and enhancing regional security cooperation.
Shettima was accompanied by Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and other embassy officials.
