This milestone represents a significant step forward in the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape.

Following this partnership, IMBIL Telecom has successfully onboarded five Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), with several additional operators currently in advanced stages of technical and commercial integration and expected to commence operations in the coming months.

This progress underscores IMBIL’s position as a key enabler of innovation, competition, and market expansion within the Nigerian telecom sector.

Speaking on the achievement, Akeem Ogunkoya, chairman and chief executive officer of IMBIL Telecom, noted:

“As the pioneer MVNE in the Nigerian telecom market, our mission is to lower the barrier to entry for aspiring telecom operators. Our partnership with Airtel Nigeria provides a solid foundation for MVNOs to thrive by leveraging world‑class infrastructure and scalable technology. We are proud to have onboarded five MVNOs already and are encouraged by the strong pipeline of operators preparing to enter the market.”

He further acknowledged the role of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in creating a forward‑looking regulatory environment that continues to support MVNO growth, innovation, and fair competition across the industry.

IMBIL Telecom’s MVNE platform delivers comprehensive, end‑to‑end capabilities, including core network services, provisioning, billing systems, regulatory compliance support, and a wide range of value‑added services.

This integrated approach allows MVNOs to focus on customer acquisition, brand development, and service innovation while relying on a robust and scalable backend infrastructure.

As demand for affordable, flexible, and customer‑centric telecom services continues to grow, IMBIL Telecom remains committed to empowering startups, entrepreneurs, and established enterprises seeking to enter or expand within the telecom space.

Through adaptable commercial frameworks, advanced technology, and dedicated operational support, the company continues to promote inclusivity and digital access across Nigeria.

The collaboration with Airtel Nigeria reflects a shared vision to deepen market penetration, enhance digital inclusion, and drive the next phase of telecom innovation nationwide.

This initiative aims to enhance mobile connectivity for Nigeria’s 234+ million residents, addressing the current challenges of low broadband penetration and poor quality of service.

Nigeria’s telecom sector is predominantly dominated by four major operators—MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9Mobile – with only 29% of Nigerians regularly accessing the mobile internet, (GSMA figures) due to poor coverage and a variety of other issues.

In Q2 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) adopted a new strategy to boost coverage and adoption and issued 43 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) licenses to amplify service coverage, particularly in unserved and underserved regions.

Amongst the licensees was MCX which obtained a tier 4 MVNE license aimed at constructing new mobile network infrastructure to 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, encompassing voice, data, and value-added features to meet the diverse needs of MVNO clients.

WTL, which is headquartered in Belgium, 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, and 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.