Nigerian telecoms unlock MVNO potential through strategic collaboration, bold investment, and innovative solutions to expand Nigeria’s digital ecosystem

Key players in Nigeria’s telecom industry are calling for enhanced collaboration, strategic market positioning, and patient investment to sustainably grow the MVNO sector.

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At the sixth Telecoms Sector Sustainability Forum, hosted by Business Remarks in Lagos, key industry players including mobile network operators, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and licensed MVNOs gathered to tackle challenges limiting MVNO growth.

NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida highlighted the potential of MVNOs to create competitive niches that strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, citing the issuance of 46 MVNO licences in 2023.

He stressed the importance of cooperation between MNOs and MVNOs to explore new market opportunities and maximise unused network capacity.

Industry experts like ATCON President Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere urged MVNOs to develop tailored services for Nigerian consumers rather than imitating foreign models.

Dr. Tola Yusuf of Infratel Africa called attention to the vast unconnected rural population and the need for innovative approaches to tap this market.

Discussions revealed key hurdles, such as infrastructure shortages and complex revenue-sharing models.

Experts pointed to the limited number of telecom towers and network capacity constraints as significant barriers to MVNO success, especially outside urban areas.

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The forum concluded that unlocking Nigeria’s MVNO potential demands concerted efforts among MNOs, the NCC, and MVNOs, drawing on successful international models to foster a more diverse, competitive, and inclusive telecommunications sector.