- Vitel Wireless launches as Nigeria’s first MVNO.
- Ntel plans 2026 comeback with innovation focus.
- Airtel Africa pushes AI-led digital growth.
- NCC cleared of bias in 2025 promotions.
- NCC–Swedfund partner to secure Nigeria’s 5G.
Nigeria Welcomes Its First MVNO: Vitel Wireless
Nigeria’s telecommunications industry is marking a historic milestone with the entry of its first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Vitel Wireless, officially launching operations on October 30. This development comes more than three years after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) created the regulatory framework to allow MVNOs into the market. With its debut, Vitel becomes the fifth national operator in Africa’s largest telecom market.
Having received the 0712 number range from the NCC, Vitel is now recognized as a licensed operator. However, unlike traditional operators, Vitel does not own its infrastructure; instead, it leases network capacity from existing operators to provide telephony and data services under its Blue brand.
Licensed as a GSM Second-Level Operator, Vitel aims to offer a full suite of connectivity services while contributing to competition, innovation, and consumer choice. Its entry underscores the growing demand for telecom services in Nigeria and reflects ongoing industry diversification toward greater inclusivity and affordability.
Ntel to Re-enter Nigeria’s Telecom Market with Innovation Focus in 2026
Nigeria’s telecom space is set for renewed competition as ntel—operated by NatCom Development & Investment Limited—prepares for a market re-entry in the first quarter of 2026. The company’s CEO, Soji Maurice-Diya, announced the plan during the Technology Times Thought Leadership Series in Lagos, highlighting ntel’s vision of a broadband-driven, innovation-led comeback.
Maurice-Diya said the new ntel will adopt an “infrastructure-light” approach, targeting digital inclusion, youth engagement, and broadband accessibility rather than competing directly for mass-market subscribers. “We’re not playing the 100-million-subscriber game,” he noted. “Our focus is on tailored, high-value services and digital experiences.”
The strategy marks ntel’s pivot from conventional network competition toward niche innovation—a move that could redefine connectivity models and consumer engagement in Nigeria’s maturing telecom sector.
Airtel Africa: Partnerships and AI Key to Africa’s Digital Future
At the Mobile World Congress (MWC25) in Kigali, Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar outlined a bold vision for the continent’s digital transformation anchored on partnerships, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data centers. Speaking on the theme of “Africa’s Digital Decade,” Taldar said the continent stands “on the verge of another leap—one where every byte of data fuels productivity and every connection builds prosperity.”
He emphasized that achieving this vision will require deep collaboration among governments, technology providers, and telecom operators to build trust, enhance capacity, and expand infrastructure sustainably. Airtel Africa’s strategy aligns with its mission to foster innovation, improve digital inclusion, and empower communities through technology, reinforcing its role as a leader in Africa’s ongoing connectivity revolution.
Civil Society Clears NCC of Wrongdoing in 2025 Promotion Exercise
The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has exonerated the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) of alleged bias and irregularities in its 2025 staff promotion exercise. Following an independent inquiry, the NCSCN confirmed that the process adhered to public service regulations and internal Commission procedures.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Director of NCSCN, said, “Contrary to claims of marginalization and breach of the Federal Character Principle, our findings revealed that the process was fair and transparent.”
The clarification restores confidence in the NCC’s human resource systems and underscores the Commission’s continued commitment to institutional integrity, fairness, and merit-based administration.
NCC Partners Swedfund to Strengthen Security and Trust in Nigeria’s 5G Networks
In a major move to safeguard Nigeria’s digital future, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has signed a strategic partnership with Swedfund, Sweden’s Development Finance Institution, to bolster the security and resilience of the country’s 5G network infrastructure.
The collaboration will establish a comprehensive, risk-based framework to ensure that 5G networks—critical to national infrastructure, healthcare, education, smart cities, and the digital economy—remain secure, transparent, and trustworthy.
By embedding resilience and accountability into every layer of the 5G ecosystem, the NCC aims to ensure that Nigeria’s next generation of connectivity supports not only economic growth but also public safety and national defense. The partnership reflects the Commission’s proactive approach to building secure digital foundations for a more connected and prosperous nation.
