Airtel Nigeria Introduces SmartConnect 5G ODU Router to Boost Nationwide Broadband Access
Airtel Nigeria has unveiled its latest broadband innovation, the SmartConnect 5G Outdoor Unit (ODU) Router, aimed at expanding reliable, high-speed internet across Nigeria. This new solution targets households and businesses, making connectivity more accessible and affordable nationwide.
Priced at an introductory ₦50,000, the SmartConnect router includes a SIM card, complimentary installation, and a 30-day unlimited data trial with speeds reaching 50 Mbps. Customers can choose from flexible subscription plans afterward: ₦25,000 monthly for unlimited 50 Mbps or ₦45,000 for unlimited 100 Mbps connectivity.
Designed for outdoor installation, the ODU ensures stronger and more stable signals, particularly in densely populated urban and peri-urban areas. Key features include nationwide compatibility with Airtel’s 5G network where available, with seamless fallback to 4G LTE; support for up to 64 devices simultaneously; an integrated power backup lasting up to six hours during outages; and parental controls to manage browsing and usage.
“We are committed to democratizing access to technology,” said Dinesh Balsingh, CEO of Airtel Nigeria. “With SmartConnect, we eliminate barriers of cost and complexity, ensuring every household and small business can stay connected without compromise.”
Marketing Director Ismail Adeshina emphasized that the product was tailored to Nigeria’s unique needs. “Families, entrepreneurs, and students require dependable connectivity, even during power outages or network fluctuations. SmartConnect delivers that assurance,” he stated.
The router is available for purchase at Airtel showrooms nationwide, through the official e-shop (eshop.airtel.com.ng), and via Airtel’s Home Broadband Sales and Direct Sales teams. Subscription plans and bundle renewals can be managed through the Airtel Africa App, the broadband portal (airtel.com.ng/hbb), USSD codes, or QR codes.
With Nigeria’s broadband penetration at approximately 43% (NCC, 2025), and fixed-line access still limited in many regions, Airtel’s SmartConnect 5G ODU router offers a scalable and affordable solution aligned with national digital economy goals.