Leading tech companies Huawei and Galaxy Backbone (GBB) have collaborated to build the country’s first data center certified to the highest international standard – Uptime Tier IV.
The new data center, located in Kano State, has achieved the prestigious Tier IV design and facility certifications, making it the first of its kind in Nigeria. This certification signifies that the data center meets the most rigorous global standards for reliability and availability, ensuring uninterrupted service even in the face of major disruptions.
“Achieving this Tier IV certification from Uptime Institute is a testament to our unwavering dedication to excellence in cloud, data center, and business continuity services,” said Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, the managing director and CEO of Galaxy Backbone. “This certification assures our clients that they can rely on us for the highest levels of service availability and security.”
The collaboration between Huawei and GBB has been instrumental in delivering this state-of-the-art data center. Huawei’s FusionDC1000B prefabricated modular solution enabled a fast-tracked construction process, with the entire facility completed in just one month – a remarkable achievement compared to the typical 30-month timeline for traditional data center projects.
The modular design not only accelerated the delivery but also enhanced the overall quality and durability of the data center. The prefabricated containers have a service life of 50 years and can withstand natural disasters, such as earthquakes and high winds, ensuring the highest level of resilience.
“Huawei will continue to work with GBB to build green, simple, smart, and reliable (GSSR) digital infrastructures across Nigeria and other African countries interested in similar services,” said a Huawei spokesperson. “This partnership aims to help Nigeria bridge the digital divide, share digital dividends, and illuminate the future of West Africa with digital advancements, powering the digital era forward.”
The inauguration of Nigeria’s first Tier IV data center comes at a critical time as the country accelerates its digital transformation efforts. The National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy 2020–2030, as well as the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025, have set ambitious goals to enhance digital infrastructure, increase broadband penetration, and promote sustainable economic growth.
“This milestone accelerates Nigeria’s digital transformation and accelerates the nation’s journey towards becoming one of the leading digital economies across the African continent,” the spokesperson added.
The Tier IV data center will play a pivotal role in supporting the digital aspirations of both the public and private sectors in Nigeria. By providing highly reliable and available cloud, disaster recovery, and business continuity services, the facility will help organizations in the country to thrive in the digital age.
As Nigeria continues to drive its digital agenda, the partnership between Huawei and Galaxy Backbone serves as a shining example of how international collaborations can unlock new levels of technological excellence and propel the nation towards a more prosperous and digitally empowered future.
