MTN, 9Mobile Sign Nationwide Roaming Agreement to Boost Connectivity

MTN Nigeria and 9Mobile have entered a three-year national roaming agreement approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This partnership enables 9Mobile subscribers to access MTN’s extensive network across Nigeria, particularly in regions where 9Mobile’s coverage is limited.

The NCC’s approval marks a significant step toward enhancing mobile infrastructure and expanding service reach. By leveraging MTN’s broad infrastructure, the agreement allows 9Mobile users to experience improved connectivity without the cost burden of expanding its own network.

This shift underscores a growing trend in the telecom sector toward collaboration rather than competition through exclusive infrastructure. MTN, in its statement to the Nigerian Exchange, noted that the partnership is designed to enhance operational efficiency, promote sustainable growth, and raise service quality for 9Mobile customers.

“We believe the future of telecommunications lies in partnerships,” said MTN Nigeria CEO, Karl Toriola. “This agreement reflects months of meticulous planning and engagement, and it speaks to the value of collaboration in achieving nationwide connectivity goals. A connected Nigeria is not just a vision; it’s a necessity.”

For 9Mobile, the agreement represents a potential turning point. With just 2.8 million active subscribers compared to MTN’s 90.4 million, the operator has struggled with shrinking market share and limited coverage. This deal enables 9Mobile to provide more reliable service in underserved areas and improve customer satisfaction.

Analysts suggest the partnership could help stabilize 9Mobile’s subscriber base and possibly encourage modest growth. Previously, customers faced challenges with porting out due to technical issues. Now, with access to MTN’s infrastructure, service reliability is expected to improve.

The NCC has consistently supported infrastructure sharing as a way to enhance coverage and reduce operational redundancies in the industry. The new deal aligns with the commission’s broader agenda to promote collaboration and optimize national telecom resources.

The agreement builds on a pilot initiative launched in Ondo State in 2020, which served as a successful trial for this nationwide rollout.

Ultimately, the roaming arrangement benefits consumers most—especially in rural and semi-urban areas where coverage gaps have persisted. With the new system in place, 9Mobile users can expect better call quality, more consistent data access, and a more dependable mobile experience.