By Nneka Nwogwugwu
US-based internet connectivity giant, Equinix Inc., has announced plans to acquire MainOne, West African connectivity and data Solutions Company, for $320 million.
Equinix in a statement on Tuesday that acquiring MainOne, with offices in Nigeria, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, is the first step in its long-term strategy to become an African carrier neutral digital infrastructure company.
The acquisition is expected to be finalised by the second quarter of 2022 (Q2 2022), subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions including the requisite regulatory approvals, it added.
Speaking on the acquisition, Charles Meyers, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Equinix, said: “With more than 200 million people, Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and, along with Ghana, has become an established data center hub. This makes the acquisition a pivotal entry point for Equinix into the continent.”
The statement reads; “One of the most exciting technology businesses” to emerge from Africa. The acquisition of MainOne will represent a critical point of entry for Platform Equinix into the expansive and rapidly growing African market. MainOne’s leading interconnection position and experienced management team represent critical assets in our aspirations to be the leading neutral provider of digital infrastructure in Africa.
“Growth of data consumption in Africa is amongst the fastest in the world, and our customers are looking for a trusted partner to pursue the opportunities presented by broad mobile adoption and greater connectivity across the region.
“MainOne’s infrastructure, customer relationships, partner ecosystem, and operating capability will extend the reach of Platform Equinix and bolster opportunities for customers in Africa and throughout the world.”
MainOne was launched by Funke in 2010. The company has enabled connectivity for the business community of Nigeria and now has digital infrastructure assets including three operational data centers, with an additional facility under construction expected to open in Q1 2022.
Source: The Cable
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