MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, on Tuesday, announced that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the transfer and assignment of the 10MHz Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) from OpenSkys Services Limited to the ICT company. The FDD is in the 2.6GHz spectrum band.
MTN Nigeria said the additional spectrum would enable it to enhance network capacity and improve customer experience in broadband service delivery and other areas.
In a statement by its Secretary, Uto Ukpanah, MTN Nigeria said the effective date for the licence is 7th September 2023, and it is due for renewal on 16th April 2033.
Commenting on the acquisition, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola said: “The acquisition of an additional 10MHz FDD in the 2.6GHz spectrum band is an important milestone in the execution of our Ambition 2025 strategy”.
This spectrum, he said, would enable MTN Nigeria to roll out its network capacity more efficiently and enhance sustainability priorities.
“Not only will it help to support the growing demand for data in the country, but will improve the overall inherent experience in line with our commitment to delivering quality service to our customers.
“Importantly, this also aligns with our ongoing support of the Federal Government’s plan to deepen broadband penetration in Nigeria”, Toriola said.
The 2.6GHz spectrum band is designated for the deployment of terrestrial mobile broadband services.
According to a GSMA report on opportunities for global mobile broadband, the 2.6GHz spectrum band is the ideal complement to the 700MHz-800MHz spectrum bands as together, they can help to provide the most cost-effective nationwide coverage of mobile broadband services across both rural and urban areas.
“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 company said in the statement.
