Victor EzejaMTN Nigeria and 9Mobile have signed a three-year national roaming agreement that enables 9Mobile subscribers to use MTN’s nationwide network infrastructure.
This strategic partnership promises to transform service quality for 9Mobile’s subscribers while reshaping industry dynamics
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe deal, approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), was confirmed in a statement released on Monday by MTN Nigeria.
An agreement between telecom operators known as a roaming agreement permits users of one network to access the infrastructure and services of another, especially in areas where their own network is not available.
MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola said the deal is a significant step in their commitment to driving industry collaboration and improving customer experience.
Toriola emphasised that delivering efficient telecommunications services in Nigeria requires strong collaboration between the private sector, public sector, and long-term investors.
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“By leveraging our extensive coverage, 9Mobile can provide mobile communication services to its customers. This strategic collaboration is yet another first in the country by MTN Nigeria and marks a significant milestone for the sustainability of the telecommunications industry,” MTN said.
“By enabling national roaming, MTN Nigeria is contributing to a more effective use of telecommunications resources and accelerating efforts to expand connectivity across the country. This initiative aligns with MTN Nigeria’s commitment to creating shared value and supporting industry sustainability.”
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Prior to the agreement, customers of 9mobile have long complained about frequent network outages, which has led many of them to stop using the service and move to competitors.
According to NCC data, the company’s active subscriber base fell sharply from over 22 million at its peak in 2016 to 3.2 million as of January 2025.
Key Advantages of the Deal
Enhanced Network Coverage for 9Mobile Subscribers
9Mobile users can now access MTN’s extensive network infrastructure, particularly in areas where 9Mobile’s coverage is weak or nonexistent.
Analysts observed that this will improve call quality, data speeds, and service reliability, reducing dropped calls and connectivity issues.
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Cost Savings for 9Mobile
Instead of investing heavily in expanding its own infrastructure, 9Mobile can leverage MTN’s existing network, reducing capital (CAPEX) and operational (OPEX) expenditures.
This allows 9Mobile to allocate resources more efficiently, potentially stabilizing its financial position after years of subscriber losses.
Revenue Boost for MTN
MTN earns additional revenue from hosting 9Mobile’s subscribers on its network.
The agreement also grants MTN access to 9Mobile’s underutilized spectrum (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz bands), which can help reduce network congestion and improve data capacity.
Improved Industry Collaboration & Digital Inclusion
The deal aligns with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)’s vision of promoting infrastructure sharing to expand connectivity, especially in rural and underserved areas.
It sets a precedent for future partnerships between telecom operators in Nigeria, fostering a more collaborative industry ecosystem.
Potential Subscriber Growth for 9Mobile
There are indications that with better service quality, as a result of the deal, 9Mobile may win back lost customers who previously switched to competitors due to poor network performance.
The roaming service could also attract new users in regions where 9Mobile previously had no presence.
Analysts also believe that the overall positive impact of such collaboration for the Nigerian telecom sector generally, is that it reduces infrastructure duplication, leading to more efficient use of telecom resources.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
