Nigerian mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) Zegtel is making a big bet on improving mobile connectivity in the country. The company has announced a planned investment of $21.8 million over the next five years to expand mobile network access, particularly for underserved populations.
This move comes as Nigeria, along with many other developing African nations, strives to bolster its digital infrastructure. Millions of Nigerians currently lack access to reliable telecom services, hindering their ability to connect, communicate, and participate in the digital economy.
Zegtel aims to address this gap by offering a wider range of services beyond just basic voice and data. Professor Victor Izegbu, Zegtel’s Executive Chairman, highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach: “In other developed markets, subscribers enjoy an extensive array of value-added services on their mobile networks. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, subscribers are mostly exposed to just the basic offering of voice and data. Zegtel is set to change that narrative with our product offerings.”
Here’s a closer look at what Zegtel’s investment promises:
- Focus on Underserved Areas: Zegtel plans to target geographically or economically disadvantaged areas where major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) haven’t prioritized infrastructure development.
- Enhanced Services: The company intends to go beyond basic voice and data plans, offering value-added services currently unavailable in the Nigerian market. The specifics of these offerings remain undisclosed, but they could potentially include mobile banking, telehealth solutions, or educational resources.
- Leveraging Existing Infrastructure: As an MVNO, Zegtel will utilize the infrastructure of established MNOs, allowing them to offer services without the massive upfront costs of building their own network.
This investment by Zegtel is part of a larger trend in Nigeria’s telecom sector. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently issued licenses to over 30 MVNOs, aiming to foster competition and encourage innovation in the mobile market.
While the exact launch date for Zegtel’s services remains unclear, their partnership with a reputed British MVNO management company suggests a potential rollout within the next six months.
Zegtel’s ambitious investment plan presents a promising step towards bridging the digital divide in Nigeria. By offering a wider range of services in underserved areas, Zegtel has the potential to empower millions of Nigerians and contribute to the country’s overall digital transformation.
