The Nation Newspaper

Tag: MTN

  • MTN mulls IHS acquisition

    MTN mulls IHS acquisition

    MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile network operator, is in advanced discussions to acquire the remaining 75 per cent stake in IHS Holdings Limited, aiming to gain full ownership of the tower infrastructure company.

    The potential deal could be priced near IHS’s last trading value on the New York Stock Exchange as of February 4, 2026. MTN, like many operators, has relied on third-party tower companies such as IHS to host its network equipment.

    IHS Towers, founded in Nigeria in 2001, has grown from a homegrown startup into one of the world’s largest independent tower companies, operating roughly 40,000 towers across Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

    Listed on the New York Stock Exchange, the company has seen a notable financial rebound, with a market capitalisation of $2.76 billion. Its share price on Thursday, February 5, 2026, was at $8.23

    This acquisition would mark a significant shift in MTN’s strategy, bringing tower infrastructure back in-house after years of outsourcing to specialized operators like IHS.

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    The deal is expected to have a material impact on MTN’s share price, prompting the company to advise shareholders to exercise caution in trading until further updates.

    MTN already holds a significant stake in IHS and maintains a deep operational partnership across multiple African markets. IHS Towers boasts a global footprint, managing approximately 40,000 towers spanning Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

    Based on industry data, IHs serves as a critical backbone for mobile connectivity in emerging markets, with MTN as its largest customer.

    If the deal falls through, MTN said it would continue exploring options to unlock value from its IHS investment, consistent with its disciplined capital allocation strategy.

  • MTN to fund Obalende bus stop modernisation

    MTN to fund Obalende bus stop modernisation

    Lagos State Government has entered into a partnership with MTN Nigeria to redevelop and rename Obalende under-bridge as Y’ELLO Bus Park, in a move aimed at transforming the area into a modern and functional transport hub.

    Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this known in a statement yesterday.

    He described the initiative as part of the state’s efforts to reclaim and revitalise public spaces across Lagos.

    Wahab said the redevelopment would convert what was previously a degraded and notorious environment into a secure, organised and community-centred facility designed to serve commuters and residents at Obalende axis.

    He said when completed, Y’ELLO Bus Park would feature a regulated transport terminal, a recycling drop-off station, a road camp for Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) sweepers and security agencies, over 60 public toilet fixtures, kiosks and other essential amenities.

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    Wahab said the design of the bus park prioritised safety, health and aesthetics, noting that solar-powered lighting would enhance night-time visibility, reduce blind spots and improve the effectiveness of CCTV surveillance to curb criminal activities in the area.

    The commissioner said a biodigester system would be deployed to sustainably manage wastewater generated within the park, while a dedicated recycling station would discourage illegal waste disposal.

    He said the project also aligned with the state’s climate responsibility goals, with the installation of solar panels to promote energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and tree planting to improve air quality and enhance the visual appeal of the environment.

    Wahab described the initiative as a reflection of Lagos State Government’s commitment to making public spaces functional, sustainable and safe in a manner that met modern urban needs.

  • Court dismisses N1b copyright infringement suit against MTN

    Court dismisses N1b copyright infringement suit against MTN

    The Federal High Court in Lagos has dismissed a N1billion suit filed against MTN Nigeria Communications Plc by Walls and Gates Ltd and its Managing Director, Mr. Okechukwu Udeichi.

    The plaintiffs had alleged copyright infringement, breach of confidentiality, and trademark violations arising from MTN’s 20th Anniversary promotional campaign.

    Justice Ayokunle Olayinka Faji agreed with MTN’s legal team led by Obafemi Agaba of Jackson, Etti & Edu that the plaintiffs failed to establish any legally protectable right in their proposal titled: “20 for 20.”

    The court described the suit as frivolous, speculative, and vexatious.

    The action was accordingly dismissed in its entirety, with N3 million awarded as costs against the plaintiffs.

    In suit FHC/L/CS/1935/2021, the plaintiffs claimed that MTN unlawfully exploited their “20 for 20” proposal, which they said was submitted to the telecommunications company on September 17, 2019, ahead of MTN’s 20th anniversary celebrations in 2021.

    Read Also: Alleged N1b fraud: Court acquits contractor, ex-MTN staff

    They alleged that MTN’s anniversary promotion, under which 20 Sport Utility Vehicles were awarded to subscribers, was derived from their proposal and amounted to infringement of their copyright, confidential information, and trademark.

    On that basis, they sought damages of N1 billion or, in the alternative, an order compelling MTN to account for revenue generated from the promotion and remit 50 per cent of it to them.

    MTN denied the claims, arguing that the proposal was an unsolicited business idea that created no contractual or confidential obligation.

    The company maintained that its 20th anniversary programme was independently developed and that the plaintiffs’ document amounted to a general business concept not protectable under Nigerian copyright law.

    MTN also contended that the plaintiffs lacked a valid registered trademark and failed to show that the company had access to, or copied, any protectable expression from their work.

  • MTN CEO Karl Toriola makes unusual visit to Modakeke

    MTN CEO Karl Toriola makes unusual visit to Modakeke

    The 2025 Akoraye Day celebration has set a new benchmark for community-led development in Nigeria, driven by the homecoming of Prince (Dr.) Karl Toriola, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria.

    Responding to a formal invitation issued by HRM Oba Dr. Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Prince Karl arrived as a royal son and bridge to Nigeria’s corporate elite.

    The event, held this past weekend, transformed the ancient town into a hub of high-power networking, drawing associates from the telecommunications, banking, and technology sectors to the heart of Osun State.

    The atmosphere was electric as Prince Karl emphasised the Akoraye spirit of resilience that must now be matched with a digital-age infrastructure. Observers noted Toriola’s presence was a personal commitment to ensure the town’s development keeps pace with global standards.

    For the residents of Modakeke, seeing one of Africa’s most influential CEOs – freshly named the 2025 MIPAD and CEO of the Year – walking their streets was a powerful symbol of possibility and a validation of their ancestral pride.

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    A major highlight of the day was the announcement of a N1billion Infrastructure Fund, specifically targeted at digitising local education and fixing critical access roads. Prince Karl’s associates, many of whom were visiting Modakeke for the first time, pledged significant support to the community’s trust account. This collective contribution is expected to fund the infrastructure support, educational scholarships and youth empowerment initiatives that the Ogunsua had identified as priority areas for the 2025 celebrations, ensuring that the next generation of Modakeke youths can compete in the global tech economy.

    Beyond the financial pledges, the event served as a cultural masterclass. The MTN chief, dressed in traditional regalia that honoured his position as a Prince of the Kingdom, participated in the age-old Akoraye rites, blending corporate sophistication with deep-rooted tradition.

    His presence emphasised purposeful progress, a theme that resonated with both the elderly custodians of culture and the ambitious youth looking for mentorship.

  • Alleged N1b fraud: Court acquits contractor, ex-MTN staff

    Alleged N1b fraud: Court acquits contractor, ex-MTN staff

    Justice Ismaila Ijelu of the Lagos High Court in Ikeja has dismissed charges of conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretence against a contractor, Mutairu Babatunde and two former staff of MTN, Victor Akintunde and Gani Mustapha.

    The judge discharged and acquitted  defendants alongside their companies: Primavera Engineering and Construction Limited, and Mabo Dredging Limited of alleged N1billion fraud

    The court also ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release all their withheld assets and seized properties to them.

    The judge’s order was sequel to the affidavit of fact filed by counsel representing the defendants: Mr Olalekan Ojo (SAN) and G. M. Oguntade (SAN) praying the court to discontinue the case after the nominal complainant, MTNN Employees Multipurpose Society Limited-and all the defendants resolved their matter in a civil suit.

    The parties voluntarily executed a comprehensive settlement agreement dated August 25, 2025, after which terms of settlement were filed in the civil suit on September 17, 2025 before Justice Kudirat Jose of the Commercial division of a Lagos High Court sitting Tapa, Lagos Island, entered a consent judgment, thereby conclusively resolving the dispute.

     Ojo, (SAN), informed the court the nominal complainant, through its solicitors, wrote a formal letter dated August 29, 2025 to the EFCC, communicating the settlement and expressly requesting the discontinuance of the charge.

     “We have written to the commission, the EFCC by letter dated October 23, 2025 and requested withdrawal of the prosecution in light of the consent judgment.”

    The EFCC counsel, Mr Babatunde Sonoiki confirmed receiving of the affidavit and acknowledged that the Commission has been formally notified the settlement and is awaiting internal directives.

    However, Justice Ijelbu in his ruling held that, “The facts demonstrate that the engine of the prosecution-the nominal complainant-has completely settled the matter, has no subsisting complaint, and has formally requested the EFCC to discontinue the criminal proceedings.

    “The civil component has likewise been brought to a lawful end by consent judgment of the High Court. The  complainant’s express withdrawal-affirmed by written correspondence and a subsisting consent judgment, extinguishes the basis for further prosecution. As recognised in FRN v. Ononye (supra) and PML Nig. Ltd. v. FRN (2017) LPELR 43480, maintaining a criminal charge in these circumstances would be an exercise in futility.

    “Accordingly, the court finds that there is no subsisting complaint, no outstanding dispute, and no legal foundation for continuing Charge No. ID/355/2013.

    “The charge is hereby dismissed, and the defendants are acquitted”

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    The court further ordered that the passports of the 1st and 2nd defendants, which were deposited with the Registrar of this Court as part of their bail conditions in Charge No. ID/355C/2013, be released to them forthwith.

    “It is further ordered that the respondent, acting through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), shall immediately release to the 1st, 3rd and 4th applicants ali movable and immovable properties listed in the Schedule of Assets.

    “It is hereby ordered that the EFCC, including its appointed receiver/manager, shall file and render a full, accurate and itemised account of all rents collected from the properties of the 1st and 3rd applicants from 2013 to date, and shall pay over all such collected rents to the 1st and 3rd applicants.

    “It is further ordered that all rents collected in respect of the properties of the 1st, 3rd and 4th applicants be paid to them forthwith, after the accounting in order above.  For the avoidance of doubt, these orders take effect unless there is shown to exist any valid and subsisting order of a court of coordinate jurisdiction restraining the release of any specific asset”, the court declared.

  • MTN wins four awards at consumers’ awards

    MTN wins four awards at consumers’ awards

    MTN Nigeria has won four awards at the Consumers Value Awards (CVA) 2025 at the Ijakadi Hall, Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, solidifying its position as a consumer favourite and an industry leader.

    Following an open and transparent consumer voting process, the tech company secured the major awards across critical operational and social responsibility areas. This quadruple win is a powerful testament to the deep trust and satisfaction the Nigerian public holds for the MTN brand.

    The awards, with “Beyond Prices: Consumer Trust, Digital Experience & Brand Accountability,” as theme was organised by BrandXchange.

    The telco won Best Green Energy Adoption by a Company (winner with 53per cent of nationwide consumer votes); Best Customer Service Telecoms Brand (winner with 54per cent of nationwide consumer votes); Most Reliable Internet Service Provider (winner with 66per cent of nationwide consumer votes); and Best CSR Initiative by a Corporate Brand (MTN Foundation) (Winner with 73per cent of nationwide consumer votes).

    Reflecting on the achievement, Chief Customer Relations and Experience Officer, MTN Nigeria, Ugonwa Nwoye, said: “These awards stand as proof of our customers’ trust and loyalty, which remain at the core of all that we do. We are committed to delivering exceptional service, sustainable practices, and meaningful social impact. This recognition motivates us to continue innovating and ensuring that every interaction with MTN meets the highest standards of quality and responsibility.”

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    The sheer volume of consumer votes – 53per cent for Green Energy Adoption and 54per cent for Customer Service – validates MTN’s strategic focus on the Nigerian consumer. These awards reflect the company’s unwavering dedication to consumer-centric innovation, service excellence, and sustainable business practices. Winning the Most Reliable Internet Service Provider award further confirms that the heavy investment in network infrastructure and technology is translating directly into stable, high-quality connectivity for millions of subscribers, which is paramount in today’s digital economy.

    The award for Best Green Energy Adoption by a Company highlights the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This recognition comes from a consumer base that is increasingly conscious of corporate accountability and the imperative of a sustainable future. MTN’s initiative to power its extensive network with cleaner energy sources demonstrates a strategic, long-term approach to minimising its carbon footprint, an effort that clearly resonates with its customers and positions the company as a leader in responsible business in Nigeria.

    Beyond its commercial triumphs, MTN Nigeria was also recognised for the impactful work of its philanthropic arm, the MTN Foundation, which won the award for Best CSR Initiative by a Corporate Brand. This honour reflects MTN’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, demonstrating that the company’s success is intrinsically linked to the well-being and development of the communities it serves.

  • MTN seeks robust Nigeria-South Africa bilateral framework

    MTN seeks robust Nigeria-South Africa bilateral framework

    In a major push for regional economic integration, MTN Group and the Federal Government of Nigeria have rallied key private sector players to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa.

    The call was made at the Nigeria–South Africa Presidential Trade and Investment Breakfast Dialogue, supported by MTN ahead of the G20 Summit. The event served as a platform to harmonise the private sector’s push for integration with the Federal Government’s economic blueprint.

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, addressed the gathering to provide government assurance on the safety of capital. Edun told investors that the administration has cleared the path for entry, stating firmly, “Nigeria is open for business, safe for investment.”

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    Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO, told the gathering that the private sector’s role in fostering this unity is paramount. “Today’s engagement underscores our shared belief that by working together we can create an Africa that is more resilient, more competitive and better positioned to seize global opportunities,” Mupita said.

    The meeting highlighted that a robust bilateral framework is central to advancing trade, investment, and the government’s wider agenda for innovation across Africa.

  • Enugu lauds MTN Foundation for supporting education, youth empowerment

    Enugu lauds MTN Foundation for supporting education, youth empowerment

    The Enugu State Government has commended the MTN Foundation for its continued investment in education and youth empowerment across Nigeria, describing the company’s scholarship scheme as a vital contribution to human capital development.

    Governor Peter Mbah, who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, gave the commendation on Wednesday at the 2025 MTN Foundation Scholarship Award and Alumni Induction Ceremony held at The Dome Event Centre, Enugu.

    Mbah said the state was delighted to host this year’s edition of the programme, which recognises outstanding students in science, technology, and other disciplines, as well as visually impaired scholars under the Foundation’s special scheme for the blind.

    He noted that MTN’s intervention in education aligns with the state’s vision of transforming learning through innovation and technology, adding that the administration had made education a top priority with a 33 percent budgetary allocation.

    “We have launched the Enugu State Education Transformation Plan (EETP) to move from rote learning to experiential learning, innovation and productivity,” he said. “Through our Smart Green Schools, which commenced in September, we are equipping our children with the skills to compete globally.”

    The governor, while commending MTN Foundation for identifying education as a key driver of national growth, urged the telecom giant to extend its corporate social responsibility initiatives to other critical sectors that impact the lives of the people.

    “We share the same philosophy with the MTN Foundation in seeing education as a catalyst for development,” he added. “The state government is open to partnership with MTN in delivering more impactful projects to our people.”

    Read Also: MTN seeks Nigeria, South Africa collaboration to boost trade

    The General Manager of the MTN Foundation, Calima Inino, said the scholarship and alumni induction ceremony was a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the boundless potential of the Nigerian youth.

    He disclosed that the foundation had awarded nearly 15,000 scholarships since inception, benefiting over 5,000 students nationwide.

    “You are not here by chance,” Inino told the new scholars. “You have demonstrated not just academic excellence but character and resilience. With the MTN Skills Academy, we will continue to equip you with digital and leadership skills that prepare you for the future.”

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Enugu State, Dr. Lawrence Eze, commended MTN Foundation for constructing and equipping a modern science laboratory at Union Boys Secondary School, Awkunanaw, which he said exemplified how public-private collaboration can transform education outcomes.

    One of the beneficiaries, Akas Favour Ngozi, a student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), thanked the Foundation for “believing in our ability and giving us the platform to pursue our dreams.”

    The event attracted education stakeholders, government officials, parents, and members of the MTN Scholarship Alumni network, who hailed the initiative as a model for sustainable youth development in Nigeria.

  • MTN seeks Nigeria, South Africa collaboration to boost trade

    MTN seeks Nigeria, South Africa collaboration to boost trade

    MTN Nigeria yesterday reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening business ties between Nigeria and South Africa.

    The techco gave the assurance at the economic diplomacy roundtable held at the MTN Rooftop in Lagos, to promote people-to-people collaboration.

    Themed: “Africa’s Twin Engines: How Nigeria-South Africa Relations Can Position Africa as a Global Middle Power,” the event brought together policymakers, business leaders, and government officials. It was convened under the auspices of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) with support from the Lagos State Government.

    Speaking at the event, Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, described the state as Africa’s commercial nerve centre, stressing that stronger South Africa-Nigeria ties were vital for the continent’s collective growth.

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    South Africa’s Deputy Minister of DIRCO, Thandi Moraka, called for practical collaboration between the two nations, adding that both countries must turn shared aspirations into concrete policies and opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    MTN Nigeria CEO, Karl Toriola, said the roundtable was designed to move from dialogue to action by identifying cross-border projects that will boost trade and innovation.

    Key outcomes from the session include plans to launch a Nigeria-South Africa standards and e-certification pilot under AfCFTA; establish a digital payments corridor for SMEs, and create a talent mobility framework for shared digital skills.

    The roundtable underscored MTN’s ongoing commitment to driving regional integration, trade facilitation, and sustainable growth across Africa, the company stated in a release last night.

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  • MTN, Ultima hunt for Next Afrobeats Star in Port Harcourt

    MTN, Ultima hunt for Next Afrobeats Star in Port Harcourt

    MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima, commenced auditions for the Next Afrobeats Star talent show in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to discover the next sensation of the genre.

    The two-day talent hunt, which was held at The Azny Place, GRA, attracted hundreds of participants who showcased their skills through music, performance and style, with many hopeful of securing a place in the Lagos finals.

    Speaking at the event, Head of Content, Research and Development at Ultima, Oluwabori Richard, said the audition was aimed at identifying young artistes with the potential to become Afrobeats stars. He explained that only the best contestants would advance to the next stage, urging participants to take the opportunity seriously.

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    “MTN and Ultima are committed to providing platforms that can produce the next Afrobeats icons from Nigeria who will compete globally,” he said.

    He also encouraged youths to make good use of their talents to build sustainable careers. Some of the contestants who spoke with the media expressed optimism about their chances while commending MTN and Ultima for creating the platform. “I am ready to give my best,” one participant said, while others scheduled to perform on the second day said they were excited and looking forward to favourable results.

    The auditions also reflected the diversity and resilience of young Nigerian creatives. Contestants travelled from neighbouring states to seize the opportunity, with some combining school and work schedules to participate.

    The A&R executives who acted as judges for the audition noted the range of talent on display, describing Port Harcourt as a city with untapped potential in music and culture.

    With a $100,000 grand prize and potential music deals awaiting the eventual winner, expectations are high ahead of the Lagos finals.