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Airtel pushes telecoms as economic pillar, seals IMBIL MVNO Deal in Nigeria – Technology Times
Airtel Africa has called on governments across the continent to elevate telecoms from a supporting industry to a central pillar of economic policy as its Nigerian subsidiary deepens market expansion through a new commercial partnership with IMBIL Telecom Solutions Ltd to accelerate Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) growth.
The dual developments, policy advocacy at the continental level and market expansion at the national level, underscore a coordinated push by industry stakeholders to reposition telecoms as both a driver of digital inclusion and a catalyst for economic transformation.
At the policy front, Airtel Africa is urging governments to rethink their approach to connectivity, arguing that telecommunications infrastructure must be treated with the same urgency and priority as other critical national assets.
Despite significant progress in network expansion, Mukadi highlighted a persistent and widening usage gap across Africa. While mobile networks now cover approximately 95% of the continent’s population, nearly 75% of Africans remain offline. This paradox, he noted, points to structural barriers that go beyond infrastructure deployment.
Airtel links telecoms policy reform to economic growth
Speaking at the inaugural edition of the États Généraux du Secteur des Postes et Télécommunications in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Daddy Bujitu Mukadi, Airtel Africa’s Chief Regulatory Officer and GSMA Africa Group Policy Chair, describes telecoms as foundational to Africa’s economic future.
The event, which was attended by President Félix Tshisekedi of Congo, provided a high-level platform for re-evaluating the role of digital infrastructure in national development strategies across the continent.
According to Mukadi, telecommunications should no longer be seen as a secondary enabler of economic activity but rather as the “infrastructure of infrastructures,” with digital technology functioning as the lifeblood of modern economies. His position reflects a growing consensus within the industry that connectivity is now as critical as power, transportation, and financial systems in driving productivity, innovation, and inclusion.
“Telecoms can no longer be treated as a mere support sector,” Mukadi said. “It must be seen as foundational, with digital technology as the blood.”
Despite significant progress in network expansion, Mukadi highlighted a persistent and widening usage gap across Africa. While mobile networks now cover approximately 95% of the continent’s population, nearly 75% of Africans remain offline. This paradox, he noted, points to structural barriers that go beyond infrastructure deployment.
Top among these barriers is device affordability. According to Airtel Africa’s assessment, the high cost of entry-level smartphones continues to exclude millions from participating in the digital economy, even where network coverage exists.
To address this, Mukadi proposed a targeted fiscal intervention: a two-to-three-year exemption on import duties and taxes for entry-level smartphones priced between $40 and $150. He also called for a three-year removal of import duties on telecommunications equipment to reduce the cost of network expansion and improve service reach.
“These measures could reduce handset prices by up to 50% and help bridge the continent’s usage gap,” he said, noting that the proposals have already received backing from six of Africa’s largest mobile operators during industry discussions at Mobile World Congress Kigali 2025.
The policy recommendations reflect a broader industry push for regulatory alignment and government partnership, particularly in addressing the cost structures that continue to limit both access and adoption. By lowering barriers to entry for consumers and operators alike, telecoms companies argue that governments can unlock new waves of digital participation, with downstream effects on education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship.
While Airtel Africa’s advocacy sets the tone at the continental level, its Nigerian operations are simultaneously advancing market-level innovation through a strategic commercial agreement with IMBIL Telecom, a pioneer Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE) in Nigeria.
The collaboration has already yielded measurable outcomes. IMBIL Telecom disclosed that it has successfully onboarded five MVNOs onto its platform, with several additional operators currently in advanced stages of technical and commercial integration. These operators are expected to commence services in the coming months, signaling a gradual but steady expansion of Nigeria’s telecom value chain.
Airtel Nigeria-IMBIL Telecom deal onboards five MVNOs in Nigeria
Announced in Lagos, the partnership represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Nigeria’s telecoms market, particularly in the emerging MVNO segment. Under the agreement, IMBIL Telecom will leverage Airtel Nigeria’s network infrastructure to support the rollout and scaling of MVNO services, effectively lowering entry barriers for new telecom service providers.
The collaboration has already yielded measurable outcomes. IMBIL Telecom disclosed that it has successfully onboarded five MVNOs onto its platform, with several additional operators currently in advanced stages of technical and commercial integration. These operators are expected to commence services in the coming months, signaling a gradual but steady expansion of Nigeria’s telecom value chain.
Speaking on the development, Akeem Ogunkoya, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IMBIL Telecom, described the agreement as a foundational step in enabling a more competitive and inclusive telecoms market.
“As the pioneer MVNE in the Nigerian telecom market, our mission is to lower the barrier to entry for aspiring telecom operators,” Ogunkoya said in a company statement. “Our partnership with Airtel Nigeria provides a solid foundation for MVNOs to thrive by leveraging world-class infrastructure and scalable technology.”
He added that the onboarding of five MVNOs demonstrates both market readiness and the effectiveness of the MVNE model in supporting new entrants. “We are encouraged by the strong pipeline of operators preparing to enter the market,” he said.
The MVNE framework plays a critical role in this ecosystem by providing the technical backbone required for MVNO operations. IMBIL Telecom’s platform offers end-to-end capabilities, including core network services, subscriber provisioning, billing systems, regulatory compliance support, and value-added services. This allows MVNOs to focus on customer acquisition, branding, and service differentiation, rather than heavy capital investment in infrastructure.
Industry analysts view this model as a key driver of innovation and competition, particularly in markets like Nigeria where telecoms penetration is high but service differentiation remains limited. By enabling niche operators to target specific customer segments, such as underserved communities, enterprise clients, or digital-first consumers, MVNOs can introduce new pricing models, service bundles, and customer experiences.
The partnership also aligns with regulatory efforts by the Nigerian Communications Commission to liberalise the telecoms market and promote competition. The NCC’s MVNO licensing framework, introduced to deepen market participation, has created new opportunities for both local and international players to enter Nigeria’s telecoms space without the need to build extensive infrastructure.
Ogunkoya acknowledged the role of the regulator in enabling this progress, noting that “the Nigerian Communications Commission has created a forward-looking regulatory environment that supports MVNO growth, innovation, and fair competition.”
Beyond market expansion, the Airtel–IMBIL collaboration reflects a shared objective to deepen digital inclusion across Nigeria. By expanding service offerings and improving accessibility, the partnership is expected to contribute to broader national goals around connectivity, financial inclusion, and digital transformation.
This dual-track strategy, policy advocacy and market execution, illustrates how telecoms operators are positioning themselves at the intersection of infrastructure, innovation, and economic development. On one hand, Airtel Africa is engaging governments to reshape policy frameworks in favour of affordability and access. On the other, its Nigerian subsidiary is actively enabling new business models that can extend the reach and impact of telecom services.
The convergence of these efforts is particularly significant at a time when digital economies across Africa are gaining momentum. As governments seek to diversify revenue sources, improve service delivery, and enhance competitiveness, telecommunications infrastructure is increasingly seen as a foundational layer for achieving these objectives.
However, the success of this vision will depend on sustained collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. Industry leaders argue that without supportive policies, particularly around taxation, spectrum management, and infrastructure protection, the full potential of telecom-driven growth may remain constrained.
Mukadi’s call for tax exemptions on devices and equipment is therefore not just a cost-reduction measure but a strategic intervention aimed at accelerating digital adoption at scale. Similarly, initiatives like the Airtel–IMBIL partnership demonstrate how private sector innovation can complement policy reforms by translating strategic intent into tangible market outcomes.
For Nigeria, the emergence of MVNOs represents a new phase in telecoms market development. While the country has one of the largest telecoms markets in Africa, the introduction of MVNOs is expected to enhance service diversity, improve customer experience, and stimulate competitive pricing.
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PLABOC Engages Plateau Ministry of Tourism, Identifies New Opportunities for Business Growth and Collaboration
The Plateau Business Owners Council (PLABOC) through its President Mr Kim Ndoh has strengthened its engagement with the Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, following a strategic visit aimed at deepening collaboration and creating greater opportunities for businesses across the tourism, hospitality, creative and wider business ecosystem.
The visit provided an opportunity for PLABOC to establish a stronger working relationship with the Ministry, gain deeper insight into government initiatives affecting businesses, and identify areas where business owners can participate in and benefit from programmes of the Plateau State Government.
The Ministry through the commissioner warmly received the PLABOC delegation and expressed appreciation for the visit, acknowledging the critical role of business owners in driving the growth of the tourism sector and contributing to the broader economic development of Plateau State.
PLABOC Presents Its Mission and Vision
During the engagement, the Secretary-General of PLABOC appreciated the Ministry for receiving the delegation and introduced members of the team, who also presented themselves and explained the nature of their respective businesses.
The Secretary-General subsequently explained the purpose of the visit, as contained in the formal letter presented to the Ministry, while also outlining the mission and vision of PLABOC.
The President of PLABOC further elaborated on the organisation’s objectives and its commitment to creating a stronger business ecosystem where entrepreneurs can access opportunities, build sustainable enterprises and contribute meaningfully to the development of Plateau State.
Government’s Approach to Business Development
Responding to the delegation, the Commissioner expressed delight at seeing a strong representation of young entrepreneurs within the PLABOC team.
She explained that the Plateau State Government is intentional about creating an enabling environment where businesses can establish, operate, grow and thrive.
According to the Commissioner, government intervention goes beyond physical infrastructure and includes the development of policies, systems and support mechanisms that make it easier for businesses to succeed.
Among the areas highlighted were:
- Improved access to land and property for business purposes.
- A rebate of approximately 50 percent on certain property-related processes.
- Efforts to accelerate land documentation and processing.
- Support mechanisms for businesses seeking financing and collateral.
- Collaboration with financial institutions to improve access to funding.
The Commissioner encouraged business owners to take advantage of existing government programmes rather than waiting solely for direct financial assistance.
₦4 Billion Financing Opportunity for MSMEs
One of the major highlights of the engagement was the discussion on financing support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Commissioner disclosed that the Plateau State Government had established a financing arrangement with the Bank of Industry (BOI), involving a proposed contribution of ₦2 billion from the State Government and another ₦2 billion from the Bank of Industry, creating a combined funding pool of approximately ₦4 billion for qualifying businesses.
She explained that the State Government would serve as collateral for the arrangement, while appropriate processes would be established to identify genuine businesses with the capacity and potential to grow.
PLABOC members were encouraged to properly establish and position their businesses to take advantage of such opportunities when they become available.
Greater Jos Masterplan to Create New Business Opportunities
The Commissioner also briefed the delegation on the planned Greater Jos Masterplan, which is expected to provide a long-term framework for development, investment and job creation across Plateau State.
According to her, the development strategy is expected to extend beyond the major urban centres and incorporate selected Local Government Areas, including locations connected to agro-processing activities.
The initiative is expected to create opportunities for businesses to establish themselves closer to emerging markets, social facilities and supporting infrastructure, reducing the concentration of economic activities within the major metropolis.
PLABOC was encouraged to communicate these emerging opportunities to its members across the various Local Government Areas.
Plateau Tourism Masterplan
Another major area of discussion was the development of a Tourism Masterplan for Plateau State.
The Commissioner described the initiative as a long-term framework for developing tourism infrastructure and tourism-related businesses across the state.
She indicated that significant progress had been made towards the development of the Masterplan, with activities connected to its planning expected around September in conjunction with World Tourism Day.
The Masterplan is expected to provide a structured framework within which tourism-related businesses can operate, grow and benefit from the state’s tourism development strategy.
The Commissioner further indicated that technical support would be provided to operators within the tourism sector.
Stronger Regulation and Standardisation for Tourism Businesses
The Ministry also disclosed plans to strengthen regulation and standardisation within the tourism and hospitality industry.
The Commissioner explained that operators would be expected to meet clearly defined standards appropriate to the nature and category of their businesses.
For hotels, lodges and other accommodation facilities, this would include standards corresponding to their respective categories and ratings.
According to the Commissioner, stronger regulation would not only ensure quality but would also provide businesses with greater clarity, protection and a more structured operating environment.
Support for Creative Businesses
The creative industry also featured prominently during the discussion.
The Commissioner disclosed that the government was developing support structures for creative entrepreneurs, including plans for a purpose-designed creative facility known as The Standard Building.
The proposed facility is expected to provide workspace and access to supporting services, creating an environment where creative entrepreneurs can develop their skills and businesses locally while serving clients and markets globally.
Creative entrepreneurs were encouraged to position themselves to meet international standards in quality, professionalism and service delivery.
December Declared Tourism Month in Plateau
The Commissioner informed the delegation that December has been declared the Month of Tourism in Plateau State.
Business owners operating within the tourism and hospitality ecosystem were encouraged to strategically position themselves to benefit from the activities and programmes expected during the period.
The Commissioner stressed that businesses should not wait for government to provide direct financial support. Instead, entrepreneurs should identify opportunities created by government programmes and develop products and services that respond to the needs of visitors, tourists and participants.
A programme map containing planned activities for the period is also expected to be shared with business stakeholders to enable them identify areas where they can participate.
Tourism Events as Business Opportunities
The Commissioner highlighted tourism events as important platforms for stimulating local economic activity.
Particular reference was made to activities involving the Lamigo Golf Club, including tournaments expected to attract participants from different parts of Nigeria.
PLABOC members were encouraged to explore commercial opportunities associated with such events, including:
- Accommodation.
- Food and catering.
- Transportation.
- Fashion.
- Creative services.
- Merchandise.
- Tourism and hospitality services.
Business owners were urged to deliberately market their products and services around major events in order to benefit from increased economic activity generated by visitors.
Quality, Competitiveness and Professionalism
A major message from the Commissioner was the need for businesses in Plateau State to improve the quality of their products and services.
She noted that while government has a responsibility to create opportunities and an enabling environment, business owners must also take responsibility for improving their skills, understanding market demands and delivering quality services.
Areas highlighted included:
- Quality of products and services.
- Timely delivery.
- Professionalism.
- Customer experience.
- Competitive pricing.
- Understanding global market expectations.
- Continuous improvement and skills development.
The Commissioner encouraged entrepreneurs to compete based on quality and excellence rather than simply attempting to offer the lowest prices.
Promoting Local Products and Cultural Heritage
The engagement also highlighted the importance of turning Plateau’s local products and cultural heritage into commercially viable products and tourism attractions.
The Commissioner referenced Goduk, a locally produced fabric, as an example of a product that could be deliberately developed, packaged and promoted to wider markets.
She explained that tourism activities and international visitors could provide opportunities for local products to gain exposure beyond Plateau State.
Entrepreneurs were therefore encouraged to explore ways of packaging and promoting local materials, fashion, crafts, food and cultural products for visitors and international markets.
Improving Hospitality and Restaurant Standards
Restaurant and hospitality operators were specifically encouraged to improve the overall quality of their businesses.
The Commissioner highlighted the importance of:
- Quality food and cuisine.
- Excellent customer service.
- Overall hospitality experience.
- Presentation and appearance of business premises.
- Professionalism of staff.
- Value offered to customers.
She noted that food and cuisine form an important part of the tourism experience and encouraged restaurant operators to become more intentional about the quality and presentation of their offerings.
The need for businesses in Jos and across Plateau State to raise their standards and compete favourably with businesses in other major Nigerian cities was also emphasised.
Training and Technical Support
The Ministry indicated that training and technical support would form part of its efforts to improve standards across the tourism and hospitality sector.
Awareness and training programmes are expected to help businesses upgrade their standards, improve service delivery and better position themselves within the growing tourism economy.
Business operators were encouraged to actively participate in such programmes whenever they become available.
Building Businesses Through Quality and Reputation
The Commissioner also shared examples demonstrating how entrepreneurs can grow their businesses through excellence and reputation.
One example involved a fashion designer whose work received wider exposure after producing a high-quality outfit for a notable individual.
The example illustrated how a single excellent product or service can generate referrals, visibility and access to new markets.
Entrepreneurs were therefore encouraged to focus on becoming exceptionally good at what they do rather than approaching business solely from the perspective of making immediate profit.
Strengthening the PLABOC–Ministry Partnership
The Ministry expressed its willingness to develop a robust and sustainable working relationship with PLABOC.
The engagement identified several areas of potential collaboration, including:
- Business advocacy.
- Tourism development.
- Hospitality development.
- Creative industry support.
- Business training and technical support.
- Information sharing.
- Promotion of government programmes.
- Participation of PLABOC members in tourism activities.
- Promotion of local products and businesses.
- Connecting businesses with emerging opportunities.
The Commissioner encouraged PLABOC to position itself as a change-maker in the business community, helping entrepreneurs understand emerging opportunities, improve their businesses and actively participate in the economic development of Plateau State.
A New Chapter for Business and Tourism in Plateau
The engagement between PLABOC and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality represents an important step towards stronger collaboration between government and the private sector.
With emerging initiatives around MSME financing, the Greater Jos Masterplan, the Tourism Masterplan, creative industry development, tourism events, training and standardisation, business owners across Plateau State have been encouraged to become more proactive, innovative and prepared to take advantage of new opportunities.
For PLABOC, the engagement reinforces its commitment to advocating for business owners while building stronger bridges between entrepreneurs and government institutions.
As Plateau State positions itself for greater tourism, investment and economic growth, the collaboration between government and business owners could play a significant role in turning the state’s abundant tourism, cultural and entrepreneurial potential into sustainable economic opportunities.
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