The news
- MTN Nigeria will lease spectrum from T2mobile (formerly 9Mobile) for three years, starting October 1, 2025.
- The leased spectrum includes 5 MHz FDD in the 900 MHz band and 15 MHz FDD in the 1800 MHz band.
- The deal supports a national roaming agreement allowing T2mobile subscribers to use MTN’s network where T2’s coverage is weak.
MTN Nigeria has received approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to lease spectrum from T2mobile under a three-year agreement beginning October 1, 2025.
The lease will cover 5 MHz in the 900 MHz band and 15 MHz in the 1800 MHz band. The arrangement is tied to a national roaming agreement between both operators, which will allow T2mobile’s subscribers to connect via MTN’s infrastructure in locations where T2mobile lacks sufficient coverage.
As part of this spectrum realignment, MTN will not be renewing its ongoing one-year lease with Natcom Development & Investment Limited (NTEL), which is set to expire on November 29, 2025. That lease currently covers 5 MHz in the 900 MHz band and 10 MHz in the 1800 MHz band across 17 states.
MTN has described the new lease and roaming agreement as aligned with its “Ambition 2025” strategy, which focuses on expanding broadband access and improving cost-efficiency through partnerships, infrastructure sharing, and environmentally sustainable practices.
T2mobile, which recently rebranded from 9Mobile following its acquisition by Lighthouse Telecoms, is undergoing a recovery and repositioning phase. The company has previously cited plans to stabilise and modernise its operations, and the roaming arrangement with MTN appears to be a key part of that plan.
By relying on MTN’s more extensive network footprint, T2mobile can maintain service in areas where building its own infrastructure would be costly or unfeasible.
Recent data from the Nigerian Communications Commission showed that T2mobile gained 290,601 new subscribers in July 2025, marking its first monthly growth in nearly a year. While its overall market share remains small, the company is showing early signs of stabilisation.
For MTN, the lease adds to its capacity, supporting growth in demand for data and voice services. Phasing out its lease with NTEL may also suggest a strategic shift toward more efficient or broader-reaching arrangements.
