MTN Commits $10b To Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that MTN Group has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Nigeria and the broader African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) vision, disclosing that it has invested over $10 billion in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure since launching operations in the country in 2001.
Despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges, the telecoms giant says it remains confident in Nigeria’s strategic importance and long-term growth potential.
In a statement over the weekend, MTN highlighted the importance of enhanced intra-African collaboration, noting that Africa stands at a pivotal point of transformation.
“As global uncertainties reshape trade and technology, Africa must respond not in isolation, but in solidarity,” the Group stated. “The path to shared prosperity depends not on individual progress, but on the strength of our collective commitments.”
The company emphasized the central role of Nigeria and South Africa—Africa’s two largest economies—in advancing the continent’s integration goals. It also described its own role as an “economic diplomatic bridge” between both countries.
MTN hosted South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, and his delegation at its Johannesburg headquarters to discuss opportunities for deepening bilateral cooperation.
“As Nigeria’s largest South African investor, MTN has long seen its presence not just as a commercial venture but as a platform for inclusive development,” the statement added.
MTN Nigeria currently serves over 80 million subscribers, provides thousands of direct jobs, and supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods through its value chain.
“While our economic footprint is significant, our greatest pride lies in the social and developmental impact of our investment—expanded digital access, financial inclusion, and empowerment through technology,” the company said.
However, MTN acknowledged that Nigeria’s operating environment remains challenging, citing foreign exchange constraints, inflation, and currency depreciation as key concerns. Despite these issues, it reaffirmed its commitment to operating in the country and contributing to its economic development.
Looking ahead, MTN pointed to the upcoming South Africa–Nigeria Trade and Investment Summit, scheduled to hold in Abuja later this year, as a vital opportunity to resolve long-standing bilateral trade and policy issues.
“The summit must serve not just as a diplomatic engagement, but as a springboard for meaningful reforms, reciprocal market access, and institutional dialogue. It is critical that the private sector plays a central role in shaping practical, actionable solutions,” the Group stated.
The company stressed that the success of AfCFTA will depend not only on tariff reductions and regulatory alignment but also on robust infrastructure and digital connectivity.
“As a pan-African operator, MTN is investing in the digital backbone of AfCFTA, enabling cross-border mobile communication, digital payments, and entrepreneurship,” the statement read.
MTN also highlighted its Media Innovation Programme, which brings emerging Nigerian media professionals to South Africa for hands-on training and cultural exchange.
“True integration must go beyond economic policies. It must include cultural exchange and people-to-people engagement to build lasting bonds between future leaders,” MTN concluded.
