In a major boost for Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, MTN Nigeria, in collaboration with Huawei, has launched the country’s first hybrid 400G–800G Automatically Switched Optical Network (ASON). The new network upgrade, which runs on MTN’s Lagos dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) backbone, marks a significant step in expanding the nation’s broadband capacity and resilience.
This deployment includes Nigeria’s first single-wavelength 800G optical channel, setting a fresh benchmark for long-haul fibre performance in West Africa. MTN says the system uses dual-layered L0 + L1 ASON switching with Optical Cross-Connect (OXC) technology, enabling adaptive routing and automated recovery. Users can expect faster, more stable internet connections for everything from cloud computing and enterprise platforms to consumer broadband and mobile use.
By tapping Huawei’s next-generation technology, the upgraded system is designed to handle surging data demands while cutting operational complexity. MTN says the move supports Nigeria’s broader digital economy goals and demonstrates the country’s readiness to push the boundaries of optical innovation in Africa.
