Funke Opeke, the pioneer behind MainOne, has stepped down from her role as Managing Director for West Africa following the company’s integration with Equinix, a major global data centre provider.
While Funke Opeke, who founded MainOne in 2008, will no longer oversee day-to-day operations, she will remain influential within the company, transitioning into a strategic advisory role that will extend through to March 2026.
MainOne is entering a new chapter under the leadership of Wole Abu, a well-known figure in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
Formerly CEO of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Nigeria, Wole Abu has been appointed as Opeke’s successor and his extensive experience includes leadership positions at Pan African Towers and Airtel Nigeria, making him a fitting choice to guide MainOne through its next phase of growth.
In his new role, Abu will focus on expanding MainOne’s internet service offerings and data centre operations across the region.
Sources close to the matter report that Equinix, which acquired MainOne in April 2022, plans to undertake several major infrastructure projects, including three new data centre facilities and an increase in fibre capacity.
MainOne’s brand will continue under Equinix’s ownership, preserving its identity while benefitting from the resources and global expertise that Equinix brings.
Since the acquisition, MainOne’s operations have been bolstered by Equinix’s industry footprint, making it one of the largest exits in Africa’s tech ecosystem.
The acquisition of MainOne, valued at $320 million, shows the growing interest in Africa’s digital infrastructure as global players aim to capture the expanding demand for internet connectivity and data services across the continent.
Under Opeke’s leadership, MainOne deployed the first private submarine cable on Africa’s West Coast in 2010 and extensive fibre-optic expansion efforts in Lagos.
In 2013, MainOne installed a 27-kilometre fibre optic cable network covering Lagos’ Yaba area, known as Nigeria’s Silicon Valley. This investment attracted numerous tech startups to the area, facilitating the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem and supporting firms like Andela, CcHUB, Paga, Hotels.ng, and Flutterwave.
The leadership transition occurs at an important time, as Equinix strengthens its efforts in the region following the recent inauguration of a data centre in Johannesburg.
With Abu’s appointment, Equinix is focused on advancing connectivity and supporting West African enterprises with cutting-edge digital infrastructure.
Elated about the role, Abu shared the vision of expanding digital access across Africa to facilitate economic inclusivity and support regional development.
Equinix stated that Abu’s leadership would be key in facilitating partnerships with both local and international businesses, driving the growth of digital services throughout West Africa.
MainOne did not immediately respond to requests for comments on the leadership transition.
