The Nigerian Communications Commission has approved a three-year national roaming agreement between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services Limited(9Mobile).

This agreement allows 9Mobile subscribers to use MTN’s extensive network infrastructure nationwide.

MTN Nigeria, in a statement to the Nigerian Exchange and the investing public, confirmed that the deal will enable 9Mobile customers to roam across MTN’s network for the duration of the three-year period.

With this agreement, 9Mobile users can now effortlessly connect to MTN’s network in locations where 9Mobile’s infrastructure is insufficient.

“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC (MTN Nigeria or the ‘Company’) hereby notifies Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a three-year national roaming agreement between MTN Nigeria and Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services Limited (9Mobile).

“The agreement allows 9Mobile subscribers to roam seamlessly on MTN Nigeria’s network, fostering industry collaboration and enhancing operational efficiencies. By leveraging our extensive coverage, 9Mobile can provide mobile communication services to its customers,” the statement read.

MTN stated that the agreement will encourage industry collaboration and improve operational efficiencies.

It also supports the sustainability of the telecommunications sector by promoting optimal use of existing infrastructure and expanding mobile connectivity access.

MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola expressed optimism about the deal and its positive impact on the industry.

“This agreement represents a significant step in our commitment to driving industry collaboration, improving customer experience, and supporting the NCC’s vision of a fully connected Nigeria.

“Delivering the scale required for telecommunications services in Nigeria requires strong collaboration between the private sector, public sector, and long-term investors. This agreement demonstrates what we can achieve when we collaborate, and we are delighted to announce it today after months of groundwork,” he stated.

The NCC has consistently encouraged telecom operators to embrace infrastructure-sharing models—like shared towers and fibre networks—to lower capital and operating costs while broadening network access.