Nigerian telecoms operator Mafab Communications, now known as MCOM, is seeking regulatory approval to transfer some of its 5G spectrum assets to MTN Nigeria, nearly five years after both companies won licences in a landmark spectrum auction.
The proposed transaction covers Mafab’s 2×20 MHz holding in the 2.1 GHz band and a 100 MHz block in the 3.5 GHz band, according to industry sources.
The financial terms of the proposed transfer, including whether MTN will pay Mafab for the spectrum, have not been disclosed.
The transaction requires approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission, the industry regulator.
Mafab and MTN emerged as winners of Nigeria’s 3.5 GHz spectrum auction in December 2021, with each company paying $273.6m for a 100 MHz block.
MTN later paid an additional $15.9m at the assignment stage for its 3500–3600 MHz block, while Mafab was assigned the 3700–3800 MHz block.
MTN launched commercial 5G services in Nigeria in September 2022, while Mafab commenced its commercial rollout in January 2023 after receiving an extension to its deployment deadline.
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The proposed transfer comes as Nigerian telecom operators continue to expand their networks amid rising demand for mobile data.
Data from the NCC cited by industry reports showed that 5G accounted for 4.74 per cent of mobile connections in July 2026, compared with 54.31 per cent for 4G.
If approved, the transaction would give MTN access to additional spectrum capacity for its network.
The proposed deal would also represent a major change for Mafab, which entered Nigeria’s 5G market in 2021 as a new operator alongside established players.
Neither MTN Nigeria nor Mafab had publicly confirmed the proposed transaction as of publication.
The transfer remains subject to regulatory approval by the NCC.
About the Author
Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
