By Reloaded News Desk
MTN Nigeria is in discussions to acquire Mafab Communications’ 5G spectrum assets in a transaction reportedly valued at $273.6 million, subject to regulatory approval.
The proposed transaction covers Mafab’s 2×20 MHz spectrum block in the 2.1 GHz band and its 100MHz holding in the 3.5 GHz band.
Mafab and MTN were both winners of Nigeria’s landmark 5G spectrum auction in 2021, with each paying $273.6 million for their respective 100MHz lots.
The discussions between the two companies are reportedly at an advanced stage, but the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has yet to approve the proposed transfer.
THISDAY said enquiries sent to MTN and the NCC had not received responses as of publication.
Mafab’s spectrum has remained a major issue in Nigeria’s 5G market since the company won the licence alongside MTN. While MTN launched its 5G network in 2022 and Airtel followed in 2023, Mafab’s rollout has not developed into a functioning mass-market 5G service.
If approved, the proposed transaction would give MTN access to additional spectrum capacity at a time when demand for mobile data and high-speed connectivity continues to grow.
It would also mark a significant change in the ownership of one of the country’s most closely watched 5G spectrum holdings.
The final outcome will depend on the regulatory review and any conditions the NCC may impose on the transaction.
