Play Network Africa has partnered with European technology firm MediaKing to launch a large-scale free smart Wi-Fi network across major Nigerian cities, marking a significant step toward improving digital connectivity and urban infrastructure in the country.
The initiative, which will operate under a new entity called MediaKing Nigeria, is set to begin with rollouts in Lagos and Abuja. In its first phase, the project aims to deploy between 5,000 and 10,000 high-density Wi-Fi hotspots in each city, targeting areas with heavy human traffic such as markets, transport hubs, commercial centres, schools, and hospitals. This ambitious deployment is designed to address one of Nigeria’s most persistent challenges—reliable and accessible internet connectivity in densely populated urban areas. Unlike traditional public Wi-Fi systems that often slow down or fail under heavy usage, MediaKing’s technology uses a cloud-managed infrastructure capable of supporting thousands of simultaneous users without compromising speed or stability. MediaKing has previously tested its system in European cities like Split, Croatia, where it successfully delivered high-performance public Wi-Fi across busy urban zones. The company believes this proven model can be effectively adapted to Nigeria’s high-demand environment, where internet access is essential for communication, commerce, education, and public services.
Beyond providing free internet access, the platform introduces an innovative “Wi-Fi Billboard” feature. This allows governments, institutions, and businesses to communicate directly with users when they connect to the network. It also generates anonymised data insights that can help organisations understand user behaviour and improve service delivery.
The partnership is also expected to contribute to local capacity development. MediaKing plans to train Nigerian engineers and establish operational teams within the country to ensure long-term sustainability and support for the network.
Ultimately, the project is positioned as more than just a connectivity solution. It represents a foundational step toward building smarter, more connected cities in Nigeria. By combining free internet access with communication tools and data-driven insights, the initiative could play a key role in advancing digital inclusion, enhancing public engagement, and supporting the country’s broader smart city ambitions.
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