Twenty-five years after the introduction of GSM transformed Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape, industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders are set to reflect on the revolution that reshaped communication and examine what comes next for the country’s digital economy.
The conversation, themed “GSM Revolution: 25 Years After,” will take place at Oriental Hotel on 24th September 2026D at 10am, and provide an opportunity to look back at the remarkable journey of mobile telecommunications in Nigeria, from the early days of GSM to today’s increasingly connected digital ecosystem.
A major highlight of the event will be a keynote address by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which will offer insights into the development of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector over the past 25 years, the milestones achieved, lessons learned and the opportunities ahead.
Adding historical depth to the occasion will be the participation of Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, who is expected to attend as Special Guest of Honour.
As one of the key figures associated with the birth and early development of Nigeria’s GSM revolution, Dr. Ndukwe is expected to offer a special perspective on the journey, reflecting on the vision behind the telecommunications transformation, the challenges encountered in its formative years and the evolution of the industry since then.
His perspective is expected to provide a rare bridge between the beginnings of the GSM era and the emerging digital future, offering insights from one of the individuals who helped shape and nurture the revolution.
The event will also feature a high-level panel discussion titled “What Happens After the GSM Revolution?”
The panel is expected to bring together leading voices from across Nigeria’s telecommunications and digital infrastructure ecosystem.
The growing list of panelists and industry leaders includes the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the CEO of the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), the CEO of IHS Nigeria, the CEO of Digital Realty, and renowned technology strategist and IT industry leader Mr. Chris Uwaje, popularly known as “The IT Oracle.”
The list of distinguished panelists and industry participants is expected to grow as more stakeholders join the conversation.
The session will move beyond the history of GSM to examine the future of connectivity and digital transformation in Nigeria.
Industry experts will explore emerging technologies, broadband expansion, digital infrastructure, innovation and the changing needs of consumers and businesses.
Since the GSM revolution began, mobile communication has moved far beyond voice calls and text messaging.
Mobile networks have become an essential platform for financial services, commerce, education, entertainment, healthcare, entrepreneurship and access to digital services.
The next phase, however, presents a new set of questions.
What happens after the GSM revolution?
As technology continues to evolve, what will build upon the foundations created by GSM? How will Nigeria prepare for the next generation of connectivity? What role will digital infrastructure, emerging technologies and innovation play in shaping the country’s future?
These questions will form the centre of the conversation as stakeholders consider what comes after the GSM revolution and how Nigeria can translate the achievements of the past 25 years into opportunities for the next generation.
The event is therefore positioned not merely as a celebration of GSM’s history, but as a forward-looking conversation about the future of Nigeria’s communications and digital ecosystem.
It will bring together the pioneers who helped build the industry, the institutions that regulate and support it, and the technology leaders shaping its next chapter.
Twenty-five years after GSM connected Nigeria in a new way, the next question is how technology will transform the country in the years ahead.
The revolution changed how Nigeria communicates. The next chapter could change how Nigeria lives and works.
