MTN’s Roaming Deal: Will NCC Approve 9mobile’s Lifeline?

Millions of 9mobile subscribers are anxiously awaiting a decision from the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC that could dramatically improve their service. A proposed roaming and spectrum-sharing agreement with MTN Nigeria is being touted as a potential lifeline for the telco’s network, but its implementation hinges on regulatory approval.

According to report, when approved, 9mobile can use MTNN’s national spectrum resources to revive its network, which subscribers have found frustrating. “When is NCC going to make a move on 9mobile, it is not working,” Kemi Alaka lamented. She has not been able to use her network for over a week.

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This new deal has been in the works since the NCC allowed both mobile network operators (MNOs) to trial national roaming services for three months between August 1, 2020, and October 31, 2020.

A source close to the matter confirmed the deal, telling BusinessDay, “The NCC has yet to approve it. But they will. It is a national roaming arrangement, and 9mobile will be able to use our resources as we’ll be able to use theirs.”

In 2023, MTN Group’s spokesperson, Nompilo Morafo, hinted about the deal, “MTN Nigeria is not looking to acquire 9Mobile spectrum. MTN Nigeria has been exploring national roaming opportunities in Nigeria in line with the group strategy of network as a service.”

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9mobile has faced tough times since its technical partner and investors left and was recently acquired by LH Telecoms Nigeria, a subsidiary of Light House Capital. However, this deal has yet to stem subscriber loss, which has fallen from 4.65 million to 3.28 million since the takeover.

When the agreement kicks in, 9mobile will leverage MTN’s nationwide infrastructure to improve its network coverage, enabling its subscribers to make calls, send messages, and use data services in areas where it lacks coverage. For MTN, with 84.6 million subscribers, the partnership will give it access to 9mobile’s spectrum holdings, including the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz bands.