MTN has revealed that its investment in Nigeria has exceeded USD16 billion, this was revealed by the MTN Group Chairman/Chief Executive, Mr. Phuthuma Freedom Nhleko when he visited the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) management in Abuja.
Nhleko also affirmed the company’s preparedness to make more investments in Nigeria in spite of previous rancors and disagreements over fines, spectrum and policies.
“We had challenges in the past, during the period of the fine, and we are grateful for the role, the Commission played towards an amicable resolution”, he said.
He used the visit to lobby for the release of Visafone spectrum whose equity shares MTN acquired in 2015. He also made case for a more level playing field.
Responding, NCC head, Prof. Danbatta welcomed the delegation and assured them that the Commission will always play by the rules and support every operator within the ambits of the law.
According to the NCC EVC, “I like to state that our word is our covenant. When we take decisions, we are concerned about the stability of the industry and there is no way we can guarantee it without considering the dominant status of MTN and its obligations and if the dominant status is becoming stringent, we are open to engagement, we will be guided by what is happening in the market, to ensure the growth and development of the sector”, adding that, “the sector has contributed very well to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and has shown remarkable resilience in this recession”
The MTN delegation included Mr. Pascal Dozie Chairman, MTN (Nigeria), Col. Sani Bello (Vice Chairman), Board members: Chief Victor Odili, Chief Gbenga Oyebode, Mr. Ferdi Moolman (CEO) and others.
