The Nigerian Communications Commission has approved the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Natcom Development and Investment Limited.

In a notice filed by the company secretary, Uto Ukpanah, on the Nigeria Exchange Limited on Tuesday, it was stated that the agreement covers NTEL’s 5MHz frequency division duplex in the 900MHz spectrum band and 10MHz FDD in the 1800MHz spectrum band across 19 states. The renewal, which is for two years, will take effect from May 1, 2025.

“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC hereby notifies Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the Nigerian Communications Commission has approved the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement between MTN Nigeria and Natcom Development and Investment Limited.”

Additionally, the NCC approved a one-year lease expansion of the spectrums to cover the remaining 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory, effective January 1, 2025.

“This agreement covers the lease of NTEL’s 5MHz frequency division duplex in the 900MHz spectrum band and 10MHz FDD in the 1800MHz spectrum band, which spans 19 states. The renewal is for another two-year period, effective May 1, 2025,” the statement reads.

MTN Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, said, “We are pleased with the renewal of the spectrum lease agreement with NTEL, which now includes coverage for all states, including the FCT.

The lease enables us to enhance our 3G and 4G user experience as we improve coverage and capacity by utilising the spectrums. This positions us to capitalise on the growing demand for data and improve the delivery of services to our customers.”

MTN Nigeria disclosed this in a regulatory filing with the Nigerian Exchange Limited, signed by its company secretary, Uto Ukpanah.