Nearly 3 million 9mobile subscribers can finally breathe a sigh of relief, as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a long-awaited national roaming deal between 9mobile and MTN Nigeria.
Improved Coverage Through MTN Network
Under the three-year agreement, 9mobile users will now access MTN’s extensive network, which will improve call quality, data access, and overall coverage.
MTN announced the deal in a filing on the Nigerian Exchange, aiming to end the long-standing service frustrations many 9mobile users face.
Customer Frustrations Highlighted
For example, Dolabomi Godsent expressed her struggle: “My 9mobile barely has reception, but I can’t drop it because it’s linked to my account,” she said — a sentiment many others share.
Roaming Trial Set The Stage
National roaming allows subscribers to connect to another provider’s network when their own fails.
Read Also: Naira Strengthens Across Markets To Start July
Previously, MTN and 9mobile tested this setup in a successful three-month trial in 2020.
Building on that, MTN’s CEO Karl Toriola praised the formal deal, calling it a key step towards better industry collaboration and nationwide connectivity.
9mobile Struggles Continue
Over the years, 9mobile has faced setbacks after its technical partners and investors exited.
Even after LH Telecoms Nigeria took over, the company lost subscribers, dropping from 4.65 million to 2.97 million.
Mutual Gains For Both Networks
Now, with this new partnership, 9mobile taps into MTN’s stronger infrastructure to deliver better service.
In return, MTN gains access to 9mobile’s valuable spectrum in the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz bands.
Ultimately, the deal brings renewed hope for 9mobile users — and finally, the promise of a network that works.