Harmonised Licenses to Enhance Connectivity and Service Delivery

MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has announced the renewal of its first 800MHz spectrum band license (Channel 1) by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for an additional 10 years. The license, now set to run from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2034, ensures the telecom giant’s continued operation on the spectrum.

In a corporate notice filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Tuesday, MTN disclosed that the NCC has also extended the tenure of its second 800MHz spectrum band license (Channel 2), originally scheduled to expire on December 31, 2030. This extension aligns its expiration with Channel 1, harmonising both licenses to end on December 31, 2034.

A Streamlined Renewal Process

The harmonisation of the licenses simplifies future renewal processes and strengthens MTN’s ability to maintain robust connectivity services across Nigeria. The corporate statement from MTN highlighted the significance of these renewals for its operational strategy.

“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC (MTN Nigeria or the ‘Company’) hereby notifies Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the renewal of its first 800MHz Spectrum band licence (Channel 1) for an additional ten years, effective from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2034,” the notice read.

The synchronised expiration dates for Channel 1 and Channel 2 allow MTN to better manage its spectrum resources and align its operational plans for the coming years.

MTN’s Commitment to Data and Connectivity

Commenting on the development, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, expressed satisfaction with the renewal and its implications for service delivery.

“We are pleased with the successful renewal and harmonisation of our 800MHz spectrum licenses, which lay a solid foundation for the ongoing delivery of 4G services to our customers,” Toriola stated. “This enables us to continue to meet the demand for data and is integral to our broader strategy for enhancing connectivity.”

The 800MHz spectrum is critical to MTN’s ability to deliver high-quality 4G services, especially in rural and underserved areas. Its low frequency allows for wider coverage and better penetration, making it essential for expanding access to broadband services in Nigeria.

Driving Digital Transformation

This license renewal aligns with MTN Nigeria’s broader mission to drive digital inclusion and transformation. The company has consistently invested in infrastructure to support its network expansion, including deploying advanced technologies and enhancing its 4G capabilities.

The harmonisation also reflects MTN’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for data services in Nigeria, as the nation witnesses a surge in internet and broadband adoption. With over 75 million active data users, MTN remains a leader in the telecommunications space, catering to individuals, businesses, and government services.

The Future of Telecom in Nigeria

The NCC’s decision to renew and harmonise MTN’s licenses underlines the regulator’s efforts to ensure a competitive and efficient telecommunications industry. By supporting operators with spectrum renewals and extensions, the NCC aims to foster innovation and maintain Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic telecom markets.

MTN’s renewed licenses come at a time of increasing digital adoption and the rollout of 5G technology, which promises to revolutionise connectivity, enhance speeds, and support advanced applications such as IoT (Internet of Things) and smart city initiatives.

Conclusion

The renewal and harmonisation of MTN Nigeria’s 800MHz spectrum licenses underscore the company’s commitment to meeting Nigeria’s growing connectivity needs. As demand for data and digital services continues to rise, MTN’s enhanced capacity will play a critical role in driving technological advancement, bridging the digital divide, and supporting economic growth in Nigeria.