14 June 2023
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has awarded operating licenses to 25 new mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) for a total amount of 5.9 billion naira.
These resources will enable their holders to provide specific telecom services relying on mobile network operators (MNOs) for the next ten years.
The awarding of the first licenses to MVNOs is the culmination of steps taken since 2017 by the NCC. The initiative is part of the measures taken by the regulator to improve regulations to consider the rapid and continuous development of the sector. Over the past two years, the regulator has allocated additional capacity to telecom operators to improve 3G/4G networks and deploy 5G.
“In its desire to create an enabling environment, the commission has introduced an MVNO license which will create jobs and bridge the gap between the unserved and the underserved in society. It will also promote competition and provide choice for telecom consumers,” said Umar Danbatta, executive vice president of the NCC.
