MTN Nigeria Communications PLC (MTN Nigeria) has announced the renewal of its spectrum lease agreement with Natcom Development and Investment Limited (NTEL), following approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

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This renewal extends a partnership that began in 2023 when MTN Nigeria first revealed that the NCC had approved a spectrum lease agreement with NTEL.

The original deal allowed MTN Nigeria to lease two key spectrums: a 5 MHz Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) and a 10 MHz FDD, improving connectivity across 19 states in Nigeria.

Key Updates

By leveraging these spectrums, MTN Nigeria aims to improve the user experience for both 3G and 4G services while expanding network coverage and capacity.

The renewed agreement, effective May 1, 2025, includes a two-year extension for leasing NTEL’s 5 MHz FDD in the 900 MHz band and 10 MHz FDD in the 1800 MHz band, continuing coverage across the same 19 states.

Additionally, the NCC has approved a one-year extension for these spectrums, which will cover the remaining 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), starting January 1, 2025.

CEO’s Comments

Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, expressed his satisfaction with the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement with NTEL. He emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “We are pleased with the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement with NTEL, which now includes coverage for all states, including the FCT.”

Toriola further highlighted the positive impact of this agreement on service quality, noting that it would enable MTN Nigeria to improve the 3G and 4G user experience by enhancing coverage and capacity. He added, “This positions us to capitalize on the growing demand for data and improve service delivery to our customers.”

Background

In the second quarter of 2023, MTN Nigeria took a major step forward by securing a spectrum lease agreement with NTEL. This strategic deal allowed MTN to lease two important spectrums—a 5 MHz FDD and a 10 MHz FDD—to enhance connectivity across 19 states in Nigeria. The total investment for this transaction was N4.25 billion, covering all associated costs, including taxes and regulatory fees.

In September 2023, MTN further reaffirmed its commitment to improving network performance by acquiring a 2.6 GHz spectrum. This new addition aims to increase network capacity and improve the customer experience by delivering faster and more reliable service.

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