Airtel Nigeria has launched its SmartConnect 5G Outdoor Unit (ODU) Router, a new broadband device designed to expand high-speed internet access for households and businesses nationwide.
The router, which comes with a SIM card, free installation, and a 30-day unlimited data bundle at up to 50 Mbps, is being introduced as part of Airtel’s push to accelerate digital connectivity in Nigeria. After the trial period, subscribers can choose between two monthly plans: ₦25,000 for unlimited data at 50 Mbps and ₦45,000 for unlimited data at 100 Mbps, the mobile phone company says in a statement seen by Technology Times.
According to Airtel, the SmartConnect router is engineered for stronger reception through its outdoor design. It supports up to 64 connected devices, features parental and usage controls, and comes with a built-in battery backup that lasts up to six hours. The device will run on Airtel’s 5G network where available, with automatic fallback to 4G LTE in other areas.
According to Airtel, the SmartConnect router is engineered for stronger reception through its outdoor design. It supports up to 64 connected devices, features parental and usage controls, and comes with a built-in battery backup that lasts up to six hours. The device will run on Airtel’s 5G network where available, with automatic fallback to 4G LTE in other areas.
Airtel Nigeria: We are on a mission with SmartConnect 5G
“Our mission has always been to democratise access to technology,” Dinesh Balsingh, Airtel Nigeria CEO, says. “With SmartConnect, we are removing the barriers of cost and complexity. Every household, and every small business deserves to be connected without compromise.”
Ismail Adeshina, Marketing Director at Airtel Nigeria, adds that the product was tailored to meet local realities: “Families, entrepreneurs, and students need reliability and confidence that their router will keep them online even in the face of power cuts or network fluctuations. This product delivers exactly that.”
The launch comes as Nigeria’s broadband penetration continues to grow, though still below government targets. Data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) shows broadband subscriptions reached approximately 104 million in July 2025, representing 48.01% penetration, up from 44.04% in July 2024.
The Federal Government’s National Broadband Plan 2020–2025 seeks to raise penetration to 70% by the end of this year, with minimum download speeds of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas. The plan also sets an affordability target of no more than ₦390 per 1 GB of data.
Airtel says the SmartConnect 5G ODU Router will be available at its showrooms, official online store, and through its broadband and direct sales teams. Customers will also be able to manage subscriptions via the Airtel Africa app, the company’s broadband portal, USSD code *312#, or a dedicated QR code.
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