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Wireless Technology Labs (WTL) has announced that it has been chosen by MobileCoreX Ltd. (MCX) to spearhead the development of Nigeria’s first mobile virtual network. WTL is Nigeria’s premier Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE). The landmark deal, valued at millions of US dollars, will be executed over the next three years. This initiative aims to enhance mobile connectivity for Nigeria’s 234+ million residents. It will be addressing the current challenges of low broadband penetration and poor quality of service.
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Nigeria’s telecom sector is predominantly dominated by four major operators. The are MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9Mobile. Only 29% of Nigerians regularly access the mobile internet, (GSMA figures) due to poor coverage and a variety of other issues.
NCC issues MVNO licenses to amplify service coverage
In Q2 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) adopted a new strategy to boost coverage and adoption. It issued 43 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) licenses to amplify service coverage, particularly in unserved and underserved regions.
Amongst the licensees was MCX. The company obtained a tier 4 MVNE license aimed at constructing new mobile network infrastructure. This would help provide capacity for emerging MVNOs through its Platform as a Service (PaaS) model.
“Coverage, poor quality of service, costs and inflexible value propositions in Nigeria have persisted for too long. We are committed to leveraging innovative technology to create more competitive networks that reduce costs for consumers and provide value propositions that suit their needs,” stated Mr. Habib Ahmed, CEO of MCX. He emphasised WTL’s pivotal role in delivering the carrier-grade core systems required for a comprehensive suite of mobile services. The system encompasses voice, data, and value-added features to meet the diverse needs of MVNO clients.
WTL: Active across Africa
WTL is headquartered in Belgium. It has been active in Nigeria and across Africa for more than 20 years working with operators of all sizes to rollout both urban and rural networks. Its work has garnered widespread recognition and industry awards. WTL has already partnered with two of the 43 new MVNOs licensed by the NCC. The company is firmly committed to enhancing telecom infrastructure in the region.
Mr. Satya Mekala, CEO of WTL said “This partnership is about empowering a new entrant to make significant impact in the Nigerian telecom market. We are committed to supporting MCX in its journey from a newcomer to a major player in the industry. Our advanced core systems will ensure that MCX can offer reliable, scalable, and innovative mobile services from day one”.
As the telecom industry in Nigeria undergoes transformative changes, this collaboration signals a promising future for mobile connectivity and digital adoption in the country.
