Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has expressed his administration’s readiness to partner with T2 (formerly 9mobile) to accelerate digital technology growth and innovation across the state.
This was contained in a statement issued by T2 on Monday in Lagos.
According to the statement, Governor Eno said the partnership would position Akwa Ibom as a front-runner in digital transformation, innovation, and talent development across the South-South region.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive in technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
“T2’s drive aligns perfectly with our agenda to build a digital Akwa Ibom — one where ideas and technology power the economy,” the governor said.
Chief Executive Officer of T2, Mr. Obafemi Banigbe, described Akwa Ibom as Nigeria’s next digital innovation hub, noting that the state had the potential to nurture globally competitive startups and software-driven enterprises.
“I believe this state has the capacity to lead in building software solutions, artificial intelligence applications, and vibrant startup ecosystems,” Banigbe said.
He added that sustainable development could only be achieved through investment in people and digital education.
“The future is not built on oil; it is built on education, human capital, and digital skills. If we fail to develop the next generation, we risk wasting the immense talent of our youths,” he said.
Banigbe commended Akwa Ibom residents for their support and confidence in the brand, noting that T2 had successfully overcome its recent challenges and was now repositioning itself as a key driver of innovation and the digital economy.
“We are back in business. T2 is repositioning as a digital business and lifestyle partner that is youth-friendly, tech-friendly, and startup-friendly,” he added.
He said the company was ready to work closely with the state government to transform Akwa Ibom into the South-South’s digital powerhouse.
Banigbe noted that the collaboration marked a new chapter in the state’s digital transformation journey, driven by innovation, talent development, and youth empowerment.
T2, a Nigerian telecommunications operator, recently rebranded from 9mobile as part of a strategic effort to revive its market position, expand its reach, and compete more aggressively in the country’s fast-growing digital economy.
The rebranding forms part of the “Transformation” stage of the company’s four-phase recovery plan — Stabilization, Modernization, Transformation, and Growth — introduced after the 2023 acquisition of 9mobile by Lighthouse Telecoms, led by businessman and investor Thomas Etuh.
