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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has officially approved a three-year national roaming agreement between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services Limited (9Mobile). The deal enables 9Mobile subscribers to roam seamlessly on MTN’s extensive nationwide network. This will significantly enhance service delivery and connectivity across underserved regions.
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The agreement was confirmed in a corporate disclosure by MTN to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and the investing public. It is aimed at strengthening telecom collaboration, improving customer experience, and expanding access to mobile services throughout Nigeria.
“This agreement allows 9Mobile subscribers to access MTN’s robust network infrastructure in areas where their own coverage is limited,” the statement read.
Enhancing National Connectivity Through Roaming
National roaming agreements allow one telecom operator’s customers to use another operator’s infrastructure. It is particularly critical in areas where the original provider has limited reach. Through this deal, 9Mobile users will now benefit from MTN’s wide network coverage. This network partnership will help to close service gaps in rural and semi-urban areas.
The statement adds: “It fosters industry collaboration, enhances operational efficiencies, and promotes optimal utilization of existing telecom infrastructure.”
Promoting Industry Sustainability and Infrastructure Efficiency
The partnership is also seen as a move to promote sustainability and efficiency within Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem. By sharing infrastructure, the two telcos aim to reduce duplication of investments and accelerate universal service delivery. This is a key component of the NCC’s regulatory vision for a fully connected Nigeria.
MTN Nigeria CEO Speaks on the Deal
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, hailed the agreement as a milestone in public-private cooperation and a practical example of how collaboration can drive sector-wide benefits.
“This agreement represents a significant step in our commitment to driving industry collaboration, improving customer experience, and supporting the NCC’s vision of a fully connected Nigeria,” Toriola said.
The roaming agreement is expected to take effect immediately, with rollout phases coordinated across multiple regions of the country to maximize impact for subscribers and improve network resilience.
“Delivering the scale required for telecommunications services in Nigeria demands strong collaboration between the private sector, public institutions, and investors. This deal is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
As Nigeria’s mobile ecosystem continues to evolve, such partnerships will play a vital role in accelerating digital inclusion, boosting infrastructure efficiency, and enabling reliable nationwide connectivity.
