Equinix, a leading global digital infrastructure company, has appointed Wole Abu as its new Managing Director for West Africa. With extensive experience in the Nigerian telecommunications industry, Abu will lead Equinix’s operations across Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire. His role is aimed at driving the company’s expansion in the region and ensuring the integration of its services to support connectivity and digital growth.
Abu steps into this leadership role following the tenure of Funke Opeke, the founder and CEO of MainOne, who will remain with Equinix as a strategic advisor until 2026. MainOne, a West African connectivity and data services company, was acquired by Equinix in 2022, marking Equinix’s initial expansion into the African market. The addition of Abu to the team emphasizes Equinix’s commitment to developing its digital footprint across the continent.
Before joining Equinix, Abu served as CEO for Liquid Intelligent Technologies in Nigeria, where he played a key role in expanding data and connectivity services. His appointment at Equinix aligns with the company’s goals to promote digital access and infrastructure in West Africa, empowering local and international businesses alike. Abu is dedicated to fostering technological solutions that contribute to social impact, including education and sustainability initiatives, in alignment with Equinix’s broader mission to support community and environmental goals.
Equinix’s focus on West Africa reflects the region’s growing need for digital infrastructure and advanced connectivity to support economic growth and social development. Abu’s leadership will be critical in realizing this vision, as he collaborates with local stakeholders and drives impactful strategies to bridge the digital divide.
Judith Gardiner, Equinix’s Vice President for Growth and Emerging Markets, praised Abu’s appointment, expressing confidence in his capacity to enhance Equinix’s operations and support the growth of both local and multinational businesses. She noted that Equinix’s expansion in West Africa underscores the company’s ambition to build strategic data hubs that can support digital advancement on the continent.
This leadership change follows Equinix’s recent launch of a new data center in Johannesburg, underscoring its ongoing commitment to enhancing Africa’s digital ecosystem. Abu’s experience and focus on societal change position him well to lead Equinix’s West African operations as the company continues to strengthen its presence and contribute to the continent’s digital future