By Ayomide Otitoju
Airtel Nigeria has launched its SmartConnect 5G Outdoor Unit (ODU) Router, a broadband solution designed to deliver affordable, reliable, and high-speed internet to homes and businesses nationwide.
The device, priced at ₦25,000, comes with a SIM card, free installation, and a 30-day unlimited data bundle at speeds of up to 50 Mbps. Customers can choose from flexible subscription plans, including ₦25,000 monthly for unlimited 50 Mbps or ₦45,000 monthly for unlimited 100 Mbps.
According to the company, the ODU router is mounted outdoors to capture stronger and more stable signals, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity in both urban and peri-urban areas. The device supports up to 64 simultaneous connections, includes parental and usage controls, offers built-in power backup lasting five to six hours, and provides seamless fallback to 4G LTE in areas without 5G coverage.
“Our mission has always been to democratise access to technology,” said Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria. “With SmartConnect, we are removing the barriers of cost and complexity. Every household and small business deserves to be connected without compromise.”
Ismail Adeshina, Marketing Director of Airtel Nigeria, added that the product was designed with Nigeria’s realities in mind, ensuring families, entrepreneurs, and students remain connected even during power cuts or network fluctuations.
The SmartConnect router is available at Airtel showrooms nationwide, through the company’s e-shop, sales executives, and other authorized channels. Subscriptions and renewals can be managed via the Airtel Africa App, Airtel’s broadband portal, USSD code *312#, or QR code.
With Nigeria’s broadband penetration standing at about 43% (NCC, 2025), Airtel said the SmartConnect 5G ODU router offers a scalable and affordable solution that supports the federal government’s broadband and digital economy agenda.
