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In this exclusive interview with IT Edge News, Segun Olulade, the Executive Director of Customer Services and Marketing at Galaxy Backbone (GBB) Limited, discusses how the company is driving digital transformation in Nigeria through robust infrastructure, innovative service delivery, and strategic partnerships. He also emphasizes Galaxy Backbone’s commitment to data sovereignty, national digital infrastructure development, and its pivotal role in enabling a secure, connected public sector. Speaking with Nana Theresa Timothy, Olulade unpacks the organization’s mission to power Nigeria’s digital economy and bridge the country’s digital divide.
What was your goal in attending the 2025 ITGOV Conference hosted by Tranter IT and ManageEngine?
We came to listen, to learn, and to explore partnership opportunities. ManageEngine is offering impressive IT solutions, and we at Galaxy Backbone are already in motion to partner with them. Just like we’ve partnered with other global technology leaders. Our goal is to collaborate in ways that strengthen IT governance, infrastructure efficiency, and public service delivery in Nigeria.
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Galaxy Backbone: Spinal column of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure
Could you give us an overview of Galaxy Backbone’s role in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure?
Absolutely. Galaxy Backbone serves as the backbone of digital government infrastructure in Nigeria. We are a platform, an integrator, and an enabler. We provide the foundational digital services that power government operations. We proudly operate the largest Tier IV-certified data center in West Africa — and we are the only one in Nigeria. Across the entire continent, only two Tier IV-certified data centers exist: one in South Africa and the other here in Nigeria, under Galaxy Backbone.
In addition, we operate fiber optic infrastructure across 28 states in Nigeria, ensuring high-speed internet connectivity and data transmission. Many organizations, public and private alike, ride on our infrastructure to deliver secure and reliable services to Nigerians.
That’s impressive. How do you see partnerships like the one you’re exploring with ManageEngine benefiting Nigeria?
It’s all about collaborative innovation. ManageEngine provides robust IT management solutions, and we are looking to incorporate their tools into our platforms to improve service delivery. With their support and our infrastructure, we can help governments, agencies, and enterprises deliver faster, more secure, and more efficient digital services. We are focused on creating a seamless digital experience for both public institutions and private organizations.
Data is currency of digital age
Data has become the currency of the digital age. Galaxy Backbone is Nigeria’s largest data provider — how do you ensure affordability while maintaining quality?
Great question. At Galaxy Backbone, we believe in economies of scale. By centralizing services and infrastructure for government entities, we reduce the cost of IT operations significantly. This allows us to pass on savings to government agencies and private partners, making high-quality digital services more accessible and affordable.
At the same time, we are deeply committed to data sovereignty. This means all Nigerian data hosted on our platforms is kept within national borders and under government oversight. We protect Nigerian data from unauthorized access or exploitation by foreign entities, ensuring privacy, national security, and compliance with local data protection regulations.
Could you elaborate more on what “data sovereignty” means in your operations?
Data sovereignty is central to our philosophy. It refers to the right of Nigerians to control and protect their data. In today’s world, data is not just information — it’s a strategic asset. By maintaining data within Nigerian-controlled infrastructure, we ensure that the country is not vulnerable to external data misuse.
At Galaxy Backbone, our Tier IV-certified data center offers world-class protection, redundancy, and uptime, ensuring that our clients — especially government bodies — can operate with confidence and continuity. We are proud to be at the forefront of secure digital infrastructure in Nigeria.
GBB: Future of Nigeria’s digital public service ecosystem
Looking ahead, how does Galaxy Backbone plan to scale or evolve its services in Nigeria and beyond?
Our mission is simple: to be the preferred digital platform for Nigeria and eventually, for West Africa. We are continuously expanding our fiber optic reach, enhancing the capabilities of our data centers, and adding smart service layers that allow for better analytics, automation, and customer engagement. By partnering with companies like ManageEngine, we’re not just scaling infrastructure — we’re integrating the latest in IT governance, automation, and cybersecurity tools into Nigeria’s digital public service ecosystem.
“We’re creating an environment where governments and businesses can thrive in the digital age.”
I’d like everyone to remember that Galaxy Backbone is not just a service provider, we are an enabler of digital possibilities. Our platform supports the innovation, governance, and connectivity required to move Nigeria forward. With trusted partners, a skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, we are building a future-ready Nigeria.
