Nigeria’s telecom company 9mobile has officially changed its name to T2, unveiling big plans to transform into a digital-first operator that focuses on innovation, faster services, and better customer experience.
The company announced the rebrand on Friday at a launch event in Lagos, attended by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and several industry leaders.
T2’s Chief Executive Officer, Obafemi Banigbe, described the move as more than just a name change.
“We are no longer who we were; we are becoming something greater, more ambitious, and more in tune with the future,” he said.
T2’s New Direction
Banigbe explained that T2 plans to operate fully in the digital space, making use of cloud technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data analytics. These tools will allow the company to deliver more personalised products, roll out services faster, and improve efficiency.
The new strategy is aimed at Nigeria’s fast-growing community of startups, creatives, and remote workers — people who rely heavily on the internet and want flexible, modern, and reliable digital solutions.
The CEO also reflected on the company’s struggles in recent years, saying challenges had made them stronger:
“Our challenges are reminders, not defeats,” Banigbe said, adding that the company is committed to putting customer experience at the heart of everything it does.
He dedicated the rebranding to “every Nigerian dreaming of something better” and urged the country to “reimagine, rebuild, and relaunch.”
Partnership for Better Coverage
The rebrand comes months after a three-year national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria, the country’s largest telecom operator. Approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in July, the deal allows T2 customers to use MTN’s nationwide network.
This means better coverage and improved service quality, especially in rural and underserved communities. The partnership also reflects a growing trend in Nigeria’s telecom industry — companies teaming up to share resources and compete more effectively.
From Etisalat to 9mobile to T2
T2’s journey began in 2008 as Etisalat Nigeria, a joint venture between UAE-based Etisalat Group, Mubadala Development Company, and Nigerian investors. It quickly became known for introducing 3G and later 4G LTE services, attracting young customers and growing to over 15 million subscribers by 2012.
But over time, the company faced regulatory challenges, financial troubles, and intense competition. By 2017, debts of about $1.2 billion forced Etisalat Group to exit. The company restructured, rebranded as 9mobile, and saw a change in ownership, with Teleology Holdings Limited taking control in 2018.
Now, as T2, the company is positioning itself as a bold, technology-driven player in Nigeria’s telecom sector, aiming to meet the needs of a fast-changing, digital-first world.
