Speaking during an interactive session with fellows of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) in Lagos, Ikenna-Emeka explored how 5G, combined with the Internet of Things (IoT), is creating opportunities for innovation, storytelling, and immersive content creation.

“5G is not just a technology; it is an enabler of experiences,” she explained. “It allows real-time, high-definition content production and streaming, scalable augmented reality, and virtual reality experiences. These are the tools that will define the next generation of journalism and storytelling.”

Highlighting MTN’s pioneering role in launching 5G in Nigeria in 2022, she noted that content creators and entertainment professionals have emerged as some of the technology’s heaviest users.

“The need for high bandwidth and ultra-low latency solutions in media and entertainment has made 5G indispensable for creators looking to deliver seamless, interactive experiences,” she said.

However, Ikenna-Emeka emphasised that the success of 5G depends not only on infrastructure but also on user education and adoption.

“As an organisation, we realise we cannot do it alone. There’s a need for collaboration with storytellers like you (the media) to demystify 5G and show Nigerians where the value lies,” she told the MIP Fellows.

She emphasised the role of the media in shaping public understanding, particularly as misinformation has often clouded discussions about 5G technology.

“The media is key in helping audiences see beyond basic connectivity and recognise how 5G drives innovation in health, education, agriculture, and entertainment,” she added.

Reflecting on the challenges of deploying 5G, Ikenna-Emeka admitted that cost remains a significant hurdle.

“The step from 4G to 5G is transformational, but the cost of the equipment required to deliver these experiences is very high. This is why telcos, even globally, are rolling out 5G cautiously and strategically,” she noted.

She called on the Fellows to explore how 5G-enabled tools can enhance their work, from cloud-based editing and AI-driven content creation to real-time reporting from remote locations.

“5G has unlocked possibilities we could only dream of a decade ago,” she said. “The question now is, how will you use it to create the future of African storytelling?”

The session was part of MTN’s six-month Media Innovation Programme, designed to equip Nigerian journalists and content creators with the tools, exposure, and industry insights to thrive in an increasingly digital media landscape.

The acquisition will enable Nokia to strengthen its presence in the 5G space by providing telecom operators with a platform to enhance network accessibility for developers. 

Rapid’s technology, particularly its API hub, will be integrated into Nokia’s “Network as Code” initiative, aiming to unlock new opportunities for innovation within 5G and 4G networks.

With Rapid’s API solutions now under its umbrella, Nokia intends to support telecom providers in capitalising on network capabilities by making them accessible to third-party developers. 

Nokia’s new framework will enable mobile carriers to offer secure, standardised APIs, allowing developers to build diverse applications and services on existing network infrastructures. 

The platform has already attracted interest from industry giants such as BT, DISH, Google Cloud, Orange, and Telefonica, promising an extensive global reach for its 5G innovation strategy.

This acquisition is also a strategic pivot for Nokia. Once big in mobile handset manufacturing, Nokia gradually transitioned to telecom infrastructure after losing ground in the smartphone sector. 

Now, with the integration of Rapid’s API marketplace, Nokia will serve as an important link between telecom and technology. This step symbolises Nokia’s aim to help mobile operators seamlessly connect with the digital ecosystem, stimulating a new wave of services powered by 5G.

Network operators and tech companies alike are investing heavily in 5G infrastructure and leveraging Rapid’s technology will help Nokia empower telecom companies with a flexible API management solution, which will allow real-time control of API usage, enhanced lifecycle management, and improved developer collaboration.

Raghav Sahgal, Nokia’s president of Cloud and Network Services, emphasised the importance of creating a scalable platform that bridges telecom capabilities with developers worldwide. 

“Operators need a bridge to thousands of developers to drive value creation and monetise networks. Rapid’s API technology and skilled R&D team will support Nokia in accelerating the adoption of network APIs,” Sahgal stated.

Rapid’s CEO, Marc Friend, noted that Nokia’s scale and extensive industry expertise provide an opportunity to expand the reach and impact of Rapid’s API solutions.

Through the merger with Nokia, Rapid will contribute its API marketplace and enterprise-grade technology to a platform already gaining momentum in the global market.

Although the terms of the acquisition have not been publicly disclosed, this deal reiterated Nokia’s continued investment in future-proofing the telecom sector and enhancing its 5G offerings. 

The integration of Rapid’s assets, from its API hub to its developer network, is expected to drive global innovation, making it easier for network operators to collaborate with technology providers and developers worldwide.