T2, the telecom operator formerly known as 9mobile, has signed a strategic partnership with global ICT giant Huawei to modernize its core network infrastructure, marking a significant step in its efforts to reestablish itself in Nigeria’s highly competitive telecommunications sector.
Although the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, T2 described the agreement as a multi-million-dollar investment. The deal comes shortly after the operator rebranded, following years of turbulence that saw its subscriber base shrink from over 23 million to less than 3 million due to deteriorating network quality.
At the signing ceremony in Lagos, T2 said Huawei will overhaul its core systems to enhance capacity, resilience, and security. The initiative forms part of the company’s four-phase roadmap—Stabilisation, Modernisation, Transformation, and Growth—designed to restore competitiveness and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.
T2 Chief Executive Officer, Obafemi Banigbe, described the agreement as more than a technical upgrade, calling it a catalyst for the company’s revival. “Huawei has been a trusted partner throughout our journey, and this next chapter reaffirms our shared commitment to innovation, reliability, and excellence. With Huawei by our side, we’re not just upgrading our network, we’re future-proofing it,” he said.
Executives present at the event included Chief Operating Officer, John Vasikaran; Chief Technical & Information Officer, Ayodeji Adedeji; Vice President Corporate Service, Ifeloju Alakija; and Vice President Brands & Communication, Seni Ogunkola.
Huawei also pledged continued commitment to the Nigerian market. The CEO of Huawei Nigeria Carrier Business, Jiang Junyong, said the partnership would deliver world-class solutions to help T2 build a resilient, high-performance network capable of supporting next-generation services and long-term growth.
Industry analysts note that the project, expected to be completed in the coming months, could significantly expand T2’s coverage and improve service delivery at a time when Nigerian consumers are demanding faster and more reliable connectivity. The modernization marks the beginning of a multi-phase investment strategy by T2 as it repositions itself with a refreshed corporate and consumer identity.
