MTN Nigeria has unveiled the Y’ello Street Museum beneath Falomo Bridge in Lagos, an immersive experience that chronicles 25 years of connectivity, culture, innovation and shared experiences, as the company marks its silver jubilee in Nigeria.
Designed as a walk-through journey across five generations of network technology, from 1G to 5G, the museum brings together technology, campaign artefacts, cultural memorabilia, iconic devices and personal stories that reflect how connectivity has transformed the way Nigerians communicate, work, create, learn and engage with the world.
Located beneath one of Lagos’ most recognisable landmarks, the museum transforms the urban space into a living archive of Nigeria’s digital evolution. Visitors begin the experience in 2001, when MTN commenced operations with approximately 50,000 subscribers and devices such as the Nokia 3310, before progressing through successive eras of connectivity that have helped shape today’s digital economy.
Along the journey, visitors encounter moments that have resonated across generations of Nigerians, from popular entertainment platforms and cultural experiences to technological innovations that changed how people access information, consume content, discover talent, build businesses and stay connected.
The experience captures the evolution of mobile technology, digital services, music, storytelling, entrepreneurship, and everyday life over the past quarter century.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Financial Officer, MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadri, described the museum as a tribute to the millions of Nigerians who have shaped the company’s journey.
“When we look back at the last 25 years, we recognise that this story has been shaped by millions of Nigerians. Our customers, government, and regulatory stakeholders, partners, employees, communities, and many others have been part of the progress we celebrate today.
“The Y’ello Street Museum is an opportunity to reflect on the moments, innovations and connections that have transformed lives, businesses and communities across the country, while appreciating everyone who has contributed to that shared history.”
Speaking about the experience, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, said the museum celebrates not only technological progress but also the memories and moments that connect people.
“Technology is most meaningful when viewed through its impact on people. The Y’ello Street Museum brings together memories, cultural moments and innovations that have shaped everyday life over the last 25 years.
“Many visitors will see their own stories reflected in this experience, from the devices they used and the entertainment they enjoyed to the connections that helped them learn, build businesses and create opportunities. Above all, it is a celebration of the customers and communities whose experiences have shaped this journey.”
The museum places MTN’s story within the broader context of Nigeria’s transformation over the last two and a half decades. As network technology evolved from voice services to high-speed connectivity, new opportunities emerged for communication, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, entertainment, education, and participation in the digital economy.
It also highlights the role connectivity has played in supporting Nigeria’s creative industries, enabling artists, performers, creators and businesses to reach wider audiences and participate in an increasingly connected world.
Through its blend of technology, culture and human-centred storytelling, the experience celebrates not only technological progress but also the ingenuity, resilience and aspirations of Nigerians.
Open to the public for seven days, the Y’ello Street Museum invites visitors to revisit the milestones, memories and moments that have defined a generation, while reflecting on the possibilities that the next chapter of connectivity and innovation can unlock.
