Airtel joins MTN and Mafab to launch 5G services in Lagos, Ogun, Abuja, and Rivers

Airtel Nigeria has, today, made a significant move in the telecoms market by rolling out its fifth-generation (5G) service. The launch of Airtel’s 5G network is expected to intensify competition in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

During a media launch held at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, Carl Cruz, the CEO of Airtel Nigeria, expressed the company’s commitment to democratising 5G service offerings in the country. Femi Oshinlaja, the Chief Commercial Officer at Airtel Nigeria, confirmed that 5G services will initially be available in major cities such as Abuja (the Federal Capital Territory), Lagos, Ogun, and Rivers. The company plans to gradually extend the coverage to other parts of the country.

Airtel Nigeria holds a market share of 27.01% among the nation’s subscribers, trailing behind MTN and Globacom. In January 2023, the Telecom company acquired a 5G spectrum, as well as additional spectrum for its 4G network, from the Nigeria Communication Commission for $316.7 million. This strategic move has enabled Airtel to actively participate in the race towards 5G deployment in the country.

With the launch of Airtel’s 5G network, Nigeria now has three operators that have introduced this advanced technology, MTN standing as the first telco to roll out 5G network in Nigeria. The advent of 5G technology represents a significant milestone in mobile network technology, following the progression from 1G to 4G networks.

5G introduces a global wireless standard aimed at connecting virtually everything, including devices, objects, and machines. It boasts remarkable features such as multi-Gbps peak data speeds, ultra-low latency, enhanced reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more consistent user experience.

Airtel Nigeria is poised to leverage these capabilities to offer its subscribers super-fast data services and redefine services in various sectors of the economy, including telemedicine and agriculture. Oshinlaja affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge 5G services, ensuring that subscribers can enjoy enhanced connectivity and innovative solutions.

This launch further solidifies Airtel Nigeria’s position as a key player in the telecoms industry, aligning with the global trend of 5G adoption. As Airtel’s 5G network expands to cover more cities and regions, it is expected to bring improved internet experiences to Nigerians and facilitate the development of innovative applications and services.