Nigerian telecommunications provider 9mobile has officially rebranded to T2, marking a significant step in its strategic transformation aimed at revitalising its market position, expanding coverage, and competing more effectively in the country’s fast-evolving digital economy.
The rebrand signals the beginning of the “Transformation” phase in the company’s four-stage recovery roadmap — Stabilisation, Modernisation, Transformation, and Growth — which was initiated following the 2023 acquisition of 9mobile by Lighthouse Telecoms, a firm led by businessman and investor Thomas Etuh.
Since the acquisition, the company has undertaken sweeping internal reforms, including a complete overhaul of its executive leadership, reconstitution of its board, and the signing of a landmark three-year national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria. The deal — the first of its scale in the country — has allowed 9mobile subscribers to roam seamlessly on MTN’s network, dramatically improving service coverage and quality in previously underserved areas.
Speaking at the unveiling of the new brand identity in Lagos on Friday, T2 CEO Obafemi Banigbe said the rebrand was more than a cosmetic change, describing it as a “total evolution” of the company’s identity, purpose, and value proposition.
“T2 is a symbol of our renewed commitment to innovation, resilience, and a deepened focus on customer experience,” Banigbe said. “It reflects our readiness to thrive in Nigeria’s digital future.”
Thomas Etuh, Chairman of Emerging Markets Telecommunications Ltd, described the rebrand as a rebirth for the company, following years of legal and operational setbacks.
“It was faith and love for country that led me to acquire this business,” he said. “To our amazing customers, thank you for standing by us. We are rising together — and together, we are reclaiming all lost ground.”
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, commended the move but urged the company to match the new identity with tangible improvements in service delivery.
“Let this rebrand be more than a change of colours or a new logo,” he said. “Let it be a renewed commitment to innovation, service excellence, and to the millions of Nigerians who rely on your network daily.”
Also speaking at the event, Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, affirmed that T2’s vision aligns with the state’s goal of building a digitally inclusive economy.
“T2’s focus on digital innovation supports Lagos State’s commitment to building an empowered, connected, and tech-driven society,” she said.
The T2 transition will be rolled out in phases, ensuring continuity for current customers. The new brand is built around four core pillars: Speed, Smart Living, Digital Lifestyle, and Trust, positioning T2 as a bridge between technology and culture, infrastructure and impact, as Nigeria’s telecom industry enters a new phase of digital transformation.
