MTN Expands Broadband Access in Nigeria through NCC-Approved Spectrum Deal with OpenSkys Services

Nigeria's leading telecommunications company, MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, has acquired another spectrum to further deepen broadband in Nigeria.

The 2.6GHz acquired by MTN was obtained from OpenSkys Services Limited. This announcement was made on Tuesday in the regulatory disclosure filed with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited.

Also, MTN said that it has gotten approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to take over the 10MHz frequency division duplex (FDD).

However, MTN did not say the price at which it acquired the spectrum. The company just stated that they would operate the facility for 10 years and would need to renew it by 2033.

MTN said,

• It is the ideal complement to the 700 MHz–800 MHz spectrum bands, which can help provide the most cost-effective nationwide coverage of mobile broadband services across both rural and urban areas.

• Broadband penetration in Nigeria stood at 47.36 per cent as of December 2022. The federal government of Nigeria has a target of 70 per cent broadband penetration by 2025.

• MTN Nigeria’s acquisition of the broadband spectrum will enable the ICT giant to provide improved broadband services for its customers, meeting the rapidly growing demand for capacity to deliver mobile broadband services on a widespread, common basis across the country.

Speaking on the spectrum, MTN said it would help improve customers' experiences, stating that it was one of its commitments.

The spectrum will also aid in delivering broadband technologies, which will help in achieving Nigeria's broadband goals.

Speaking about the acquisition, the CEO of MTNN, Karl Toriola, stated,

• The acquisition of an additional 10 MHz frequency division duplex (FDD) in the 2.6 GHz spectrum band is an important milestone in the execution of our Ambition 2025 strategy.

• This spectrum will enable MTN Nigeria to roll out our network capacity more efficiently and enhance our sustainability priorities. Not only will it help to support the growing demand for data in the country, but it will improve the overall internet experience in line with our commitment to delivering quality service to our customers.