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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Natcom Development and Investment Limited (Ntel).
In a regulatory notice filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Tuesday, MTN’s company secretary, Uto Ukpanah, confirmed that the agreement covers Ntel’s 5MHz frequency division duplex (FDD) in the 900MHz spectrum band and 10MHz FDD in the 1800MHz spectrum band across 19 states. This renewal, valid for two years, will take effect from May 1, 2025.
“MTN Nigeria Communications Plc hereby notifies Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the Nigerian Communications Commission has approved the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement between MTN Nigeria and Natcom Development and Investment Limited,” the statement read.
Expanded Coverage
In addition to the renewal, the NCC approved a one-year lease expansion of the spectrums to include the remaining 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This expanded lease will commence on January 1, 2025.
“This agreement covers the lease of Ntel’s 5MHz frequency division duplex in the 900MHz spectrum band and 10MHz FDD in the 1800MHz spectrum band, which spans 19 states. The renewal is for another two years, effective May 1, 2025,” the filing further stated.
Enhancing Network Capabilities
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, expressed satisfaction with the renewed agreement. “We are pleased with the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement with Ntel, which now includes coverage for all states, including the FCT. The lease enables us to enhance our 3G and 4G user experience as we improve coverage and capacity by utilizing the spectrums. This positions us to capitalize on the growing demand for data and improve the delivery of services to our customers,” Toriola said.
The agreement underscores MTN’s commitment to expanding its network capabilities and delivering enhanced services across Nigeria, meeting the increasing demand for reliable data and connectivity solutions.
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