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Stakeholders Applaud as Secondary Market of Spectrum Begins

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There is excitement among telecommunications stakeholders as the process of secondary spectrum market begins in the sector, Nigeria CommunicationsWeek has learnt.

 

The board of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had in first quarter of this year approved the commencement of spectrum trading also known as secondary spectrum market in the telecommunications sector of the economy.

 

In effect, the market has begun with some operators presently selling their spectrum to others operators that are in need of such spectrum for use.

 

Affirming this development, Engr. Olusola Teniola, president, Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), who confirmed this to Nigeria CommunicationsWeek said: “I can confirm to you that secondary market of spectrum has started, I won’t disclose to the media the operators that are currently selling and buying from one another because of the sensitive nature of the business”.

 

He explained that spectrum trading is to the benefit of consumers who are provided with access where it is previously not available.

 

“There are some areas in the country without telecommunications services because operators that has the spectrum don’t want to deploy service in those areas, but with spectrum trading operators willing to deploy services to such areas can buy spectrum from that operator and give access to the area. This makes allocation of spectrum more efficient,” he said.

 

He added that a typical transaction at the market could be consummated through application in response to a private advertisement of the intent to sale, after which negotiation is done with NCC monitoring the transaction that will enable them to transmit the spectrum from the former owner to the new operator of the spectrum.

 

He noted that last mile access is very important in the deployment of Internet of Things and other technologies and that if spectrum allocation is done efficiently it will allow the roll out of such services.

 

“We are happy as an industry that spectrum trading is now a reality. Cost of spectrum has been a major factor in deployment of access in the country. While western countries are bothered about speed of internet, Nigeria has a peculiar problem of access with 192 market gap comprising of underserve and unserved communities. There is a problem of how do we give access to these communities, allocating spectrum efficiently will speed up the process of giving them access,” he added.

 

Engr. Lanre Ajayi,  managing director, Pinet Informatics and immediate past president of Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) who was the first to advocate for spectrum trading commended NCC for listening to stakeholders’ advocacy in the implementation of secondary market of spectrum in the industry.

Spectrum1.jpg

He said that some operators in the industry have spectrum they paid for but are not using it, while some operators want to deploy services in some areas but does not have spectrum due to high cost or the process. “Why don’t we match them together to the benefit of consumers that will have access and services?

 

“The commencement of implementation of secondary market of spectrum is a welcome development. Spectrum is generally designated for specific applications where we have spectrum for television, radio and broadband. In spectrum trading, market forces should determine the transactions; NCC’s role should be in compliance which is how to use it,” he noted.


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Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

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MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

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MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB), a fintech subsidiary of MTN Nigeria, has announced a partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles to provide subsidised bus rides of ₦10 per fare to students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

MoMo PSB

The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Lagos, is aimed at easing transportation costs for young Nigerians, particularly students, as part of MoMo PSB’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and digital accessibility.

MoMo PSB, which provides millions of Nigerians with secure financial services including transfers, savings, card services, bill payments and wallet solutions, said the transport subsidy reflects its mission to improve everyday life by reducing the cost of essential services.

The company explained that the partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles would not only make commuting more affordable for students but also promote sustainable mobility through the use of electric buses.

Officials of MoMo PSB noted that the initiative is designed to bring “good cheer” to the UNILAG community, ensuring students can access safe, reliable and cost-effective transport while focusing on their education.


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MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

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MTN Nigeria has launched its Unlimited Broadband Data plans powered by 5G technology, a move the telecoms giant says will tackle long-standing challenges of capped data limits, high costs and unstable connectivity faced by internet users across the country.

MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

MTN Nigeria

Egerton Idehen, Chief Broadband Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the new product was designed to support high-demand users including streamers, gamers, households and businesses requiring uninterrupted connectivity.

“We’re building a broadband experience for everyday life. For content creators, remote workers, gamers, students and households. Our focus is on speed, reliability, low latency, and affordability.

“Broadband is designed to deliver seamless connectivity that empowers Nigerians to thrive in the digital economy,” Idehen said.

The plans, available in speed-based variants of 50Mbps and 100Mbps, promise lightning-fast speeds and ultra-low latency to address issues of lag and buffering. MTN said the packages would also provide affordable and flexible options to cater to diverse economic segments.

New customers who purchase a 5G router will enjoy a welcome bonus of unlimited data for the first 30 days, allowing them to experience the service before committing to long-term use.

The company explained that the initiative was part of its broader commitment to digital inclusion, enabling Nigerians to access stable connections for virtual meetings, large file transfers, online learning, high-definition streaming and professional gaming.

Customers can subscribe to the Unlimited Broadband Plans by dialling 4611#, using the MyMTN app, MTN eShop, MTN website, or visiting authorised retail outlets nationwide.


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Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

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The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened applications for its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria, inviting first-year university students with strong academic potential to apply for financial support aimed at accelerating their studies in technology and related fields.

The scheme provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for eligible 100-level students. It forms part of the Foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.

Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity. He noted that, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” adding that “as an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”

Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.

Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders. “Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure. This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” he said.

Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting. Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.

The Foundation encourages qualified students across the listed institutions to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector. Applications can be submitted at candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.

 


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