Broadband penetration: MTN completes 2.6GHz spectrum acquisition deal

MTN Nigeria says it has acquired a 2.6GHz spectrum band from OPENSKYS Services Limited.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved the transfer of a 10MHz spectrum in the 2.6GHz spectrum band from OPENSKYS Services Limited (OS) to MTN Nigeria, a statement by Lakinbofa Goodluck, public relations manager, said on Tuesday.

The acquisition took effect on September 7, 2023.

The 2.6GHz spectrum band is designated for the deployment of terrestrial mobile broadband services and will ensure the deployment of the spectrum across the 36 states of the federation, including the FCT.

“It is the ideal complement to the 700MHz-800MHz spectrum bands, which can help to provide the most cost-effective nationwide coverage of mobile broadband services across both rural and urban areas,” the statement reads.

“Broadband penetration in Nigeria stood at 47.36 percent as of December 2022. The federal government of Nigeria has a target of 70 percent broadband penetration by 2025.

“MTN Nigeria’s acquisition of the broadband spectrum will enable the ICT giant to provide improved broadband services for its customers, meeting the rapidly growing demand for capacity to deliver mobile broadband services on a widespread, common basis across the country.”

The telecoms giant said the spectrum would significantly improve its customers’ experience in line with its commitment to deliver excellent service.

MTN said the acquired spectrum would also enable it to deliver broadband technologies, aiding the achievement of Nigeria’s broadband objective. 

Commenting on the acquisition, Karl Toriola, chief executive officer (CEO), MTN Nigeria said: “This additional spectrum will enable us to deliver on our promise to our customers to deliver quality service, as we continue to support the federal government’s vision of deepening broadband penetration in the country.”

Speaking on the impact of the spectrum, MTN said an increase in broadband penetration, especially in developing countries, automatically translates to an increase in gross domestic product (GDP).

This, the telecoms firm said, underscores the need for constant development and investment in broadband infrastructure such as the 2.6GHz spectrum band.