Telecommunicat-ions operators, internet service providers and data centre companies will examine ways to strengthen domestic internet traffic exchange as Nigeria seeks to improve connectivity and build infrastructure to support its expanding digital economy.

The stakeholders are expected to discuss the challenges and opportunities around internet peering, interconnection, local content delivery and data centre infrastructure at the 2026 Nigerian Peering and Interconnection Forum, scheduled for 28 and 29 October in Lagos.

The forum is being convened by the Nigerian Network Operators Group in collaboration with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria and the Nigerian Communications Commission.

The discussions come as rising internet usage, cloud computing and digital services increase the importance of reliable connectivity and efficient traffic exchange. Stronger domestic interconnection can allow networks to exchange traffic locally rather than route it through international networks, potentially reducing latency and improving the efficiency of internet services.

According to the convenor of ngNOG, Prof. Adewale Adedokun, Nigeria needs to pay greater attention to the infrastructure and arrangements that determine how internet traffic is exchanged, content is delivered and digital services are hosted.

“As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, we must pay closer attention to the infrastructure and interconnection arrangements that underpin it. Keeping more traffic local, strengthening peering and improving access to resilient infrastructure are critical to building a faster, more efficient and sustainable Internet ecosystem,” Adedokun said.

He said the forum would provide an opportunity for stakeholders to develop practical responses to shared infrastructure challenges.

The event will bring together network operators, internet service providers, data centres, content providers, technology companies, regulators and other participants in the digital infrastructure ecosystem.

Key issues on the agenda include internet peering and interconnection, local traffic exchange, data centres, connectivity infrastructure, content delivery, regional connectivity and regulation.

Internet peering allows networks to exchange traffic directly, while interconnection provides the links through which separate networks communicate. Effective domestic arrangements can improve the delivery of online services and reduce dependence on more distant routes for traffic exchanged between networks within the country.

However, the benefits depend on factors including the availability of adequate infrastructure, the distribution of data centres and content, network capacity and the willingness of operators to establish commercially viable interconnection arrangements.

Adedokun said cooperation across the industry would be necessary to meet demand arising from increased internet use, cloud services, online content and emerging technologies.

“No single player can address these challenges alone. Operators, data centres, content providers, regulators, IXPs and technology companies must work together to create an environment where digital services can be delivered efficiently and reliably from within Nigeria,” he said.

The programme will feature research presentations, technical sessions, fireside conversations and industry panels examining the infrastructure required to support Nigeria’s digital growth.

A central focus will be the localisation of internet traffic, content and digital services, with participants expected to consider how stronger domestic interconnection could improve network performance, resilience and efficiency.

The organisers said the forum would also provide opportunities for stakeholders to exchange technical knowledge, strengthen industry relationships and identify areas for collaboration and investment.

The meeting will further examine changes in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure landscape and initiatives aimed at expanding connectivity and strengthening critical infrastructure across the