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MTN nears IHS Towers takeover after shareholder approval – Technology Times
South Africa’s MTN Group has moved a significant step closer to acquiring IHS Holding Limited after shareholders of the tower infrastructure company approved the proposed takeover, advancing one of the largest digital infrastructure transactions in Africa’s telecommunications industry.
The approval, secured during an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of IHS shareholders on Tuesday, marks a major milestone in MTN’s ambition to integrate one of Africa’s largest independent telecoms tower companies into its operations. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals across relevant jurisdictions before it can be completed.
According to regulatory filings seen by Technology Times, the shareholder vote follows the agreement announced in February this year under which MTN proposed acquiring the outstanding shares of IHS Towers that it does not already own, bringing the tower company fully into the MTN Group.
MTN Group reckons that taking ownership of such vital telecoms infrastructure advances its future competitiveness across the continent of Africa where the group serves voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API offerings to over 312.7 million customers in 19 markets.
IHS Towers takeover extends beyond expansion
For MTN Group, which owns MTN Nigeria, the nation’s largest mobile network operator, the deal extends beyond corporate expansion. It reflects the South African mobile operator’s long-term strategy to strengthen ownership of digital infrastructure that underpins mobile connectivity, cloud services, artificial intelligence (AI) applications and future digital economies across Africa.
Announcing the latest development, the South African telecoms giant described the shareholder approval as an important milestone towards completing the transaction.
Ralph Mupita, President and Chief Executive Officer of MTN Group, said the approval reinforces the company’s long-term strategic direction under its Ambition 2030 programme, where infrastructure has become increasingly central to future value creation.
According to Mupita, telecoms towers have evolved beyond passive infrastructure to become strategic digital assets capable of supporting Africa’s next phase of economic growth, particularly as AI-driven services, cloud computing and data-intensive applications continue to expand.
MTN Group reckons that taking ownership of such vital telecoms infrastructure advances its future competitiveness across the continent of Africa where the group serves voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API offerings to over 312.7 million customers in 19 markets.
The telecoms group believes bringing MTN’s extensive mobile network together with IHS’s tower portfolio will strengthen operational efficiencies while providing greater flexibility to invest in next-generation digital infrastructure.
A strategic infrastructure play
Industry analysts view the acquisition as one of the most strategically significant telecoms transactions on the continent in recent years.
Historically, African mobile operators separated tower ownership from network operations by selling infrastructure assets to specialist tower companies. The model allowed operators to reduce capital expenditure while tower companies generated returns by leasing infrastructure to multiple mobile network operators.
Over the past decade, IHS Towers emerged as one of Africa’s largest independent tower operators through acquisitions and long-term infrastructure investments across several markets.
IHS Towers says it owns and operates over 37,000 telecoms towers across Africa and Latin America supporting mobile operators throughout Africa and selected international markets, making it one of the world’s largest independent tower infrastructure businesses. With operations in seven countries, its local operation, IHS Nigeria counts about 15,848 sites delivering connectivity to the nation’s digital population counting over 190 million phone subscribers and more than 157 million internet subscribers.
“We are one of the largest independent tower operators globally by tower count,” IHS says on its website, “the leader in five of our markets and the only independent multinational operator in three of these markets.”
For MTN, however, changing technology dynamics are reshaping the economics of infrastructure ownership. The explosive growth in mobile broadband usage, 5G deployment, edge computing, fibre expansion and AI-enabled digital services has increased the strategic importance of physical infrastructure.
Rather than viewing towers solely as passive assets, operators increasingly regard them as platforms supporting broader digital ecosystems that include cloud services, enterprise connectivity, fintech, Internet of Things (IoT) deployments and AI workloads.
MTN’s latest move therefore reflects a broader shift in global telecoms strategy, where infrastructure ownership is once again becoming an important competitive differentiator.
IHS Towers says it owns and operates over 37,000 telecoms towers across Africa and Latin America supporting mobile operators throughout Africa and selected international markets, making it one of the world’s largest independent tower infrastructure businesses. With operations in seven countries, its local operation, IHS Nigeria counts about 15,848 sites delivering connectivity to the nation’s digital population counting over 190 million phone subscribers and more than 157 million internet subscribers.
IHS Towers shareholders back MTN takeover
At the August 4 Extraordinary General Meeting, IHS shareholders approved the merger proposal through the required special resolution.
According to the company’s regulatory filings, shareholders representing more than 264 million ordinary shares participated in person or by proxy, constituting the quorum required for the meeting.
The principal resolution authorised the merger agreement, the associated plan of merger and the actions required by directors and officers to implement the transaction once remaining conditions are satisfied.
A secondary procedural proposal relating to adjournment of the meeting became unnecessary after shareholders approved the principal resolution.
The outcome satisfies one of the major conditions required before the transaction can proceed to completion.
Regulatory scrutiny remains
Despite the shareholder endorsement, the acquisition is not yet complete. The transaction must still receive approvals from competition authorities, telecoms regulators and other relevant government agencies in jurisdictions where both companies operate.
Such reviews are common for transactions involving critical communications infrastructure because regulators assess their impact on market competition, national security, infrastructure resilience and consumer welfare.
Neither MTN nor IHS has indicated when all regulatory processes are expected to conclude.
Industry observers expect authorities to examine the implications for tower sharing, infrastructure access by competing operators and the continued availability of neutral infrastructure services.
Implications for Nigeria
The proposed acquisition carries particular significance for Nigeria, one of the largest telecoms markets in Africa.
IHS originated in Nigeria and remains one of the country’s most prominent digital infrastructure companies, supporting mobile network operations through an extensive portfolio of telecoms towers.
“Nigeria is the largest mobile communications market in Africa. IHS Towers began in Nigeria in 2001, and remains our largest market today,” the company says on its website. “The company started as a provider of site build services for mobile network operators in Nigeria, but has gone on to develop deep expertise in all aspects of telecom towers. Today, IHS and its subsidiaries in Nigeria manage over 16,000 sites. We operate from our head office in Lagos but have regional offices in Abuja, Ibadan, Enugu, Asaba, Kano and Port Harcourt.”
MTN Nigeria is also the country’s largest mobile network operator by subscriber base and currently serves about 97 million subscribers with 51% share of the mobile telephony market.
Although the acquisition is being executed at the parent company level, the transaction could eventually influence future infrastructure investment strategies within Nigeria.
Greater integration between network operations and tower management may accelerate network expansion into underserved communities, improve operational efficiency and support increasing demand for mobile broadband capacity.
Industry stakeholders also expect continued investment in energy-efficient tower operations, fibre connectivity and infrastructure capable of supporting future AI-enabled telecommunications services.
Infrastructure becomes central to AI
The proposed acquisition comes as artificial intelligence increasingly influences telecommunications investment decisions worldwide.
Modern AI applications require dense, resilient and highly connected infrastructure capable of transporting and processing large volumes of data with minimal latency.
Telecoms towers, fibre networks, edge computing facilities and data centres therefore form critical components of the AI ecosystem.
MTN has increasingly emphasised that digital infrastructure will become a major driver of long-term shareholder value as Africa’s digital economies mature.
Its Ambition 2030 strategy places significant emphasis on expanding connectivity, digital platforms, financial technology services and infrastructure investments designed to support future economic growth.
The acquisition of IHS fits squarely within that strategic direction.
Changing economics of telecoms infrastructure
The African telecoms industry has experienced significant structural transformation over the past two decades. During the rapid expansion of mobile services, operators invested heavily in building nationwide infrastructure.
Subsequently, many operators sold tower assets to specialist infrastructure companies to improve balance sheets and reduce operational complexity. Tower companies then expanded by leasing infrastructure to multiple operators, creating more efficient utilisation of assets.
Today, however, digital transformation is altering that equation.
Network infrastructure is becoming increasingly integrated with cloud computing, enterprise digital services, AI platforms and edge processing capabilities.
As connectivity evolves from voice and mobile broadband toward intelligent digital ecosystems, ownership of infrastructure is once again assuming strategic importance.
MTN’s proposed acquisition reflects this changing landscape.
Investor confidence
The shareholder approval also signals investor confidence in the long-term industrial logic of combining network operations with infrastructure ownership.
Although regulatory reviews remain, the decisive approval removes one of the largest uncertainties surrounding the transaction.
Investors will now focus on regulatory timelines, integration planning and the financial implications once the acquisition closes.
For MTN shareholders, successful completion would further strengthen the group’s position as an integrated digital infrastructure provider serving consumers, enterprises and governments across multiple African markets.
The road ahead
Completion of the acquisition would create one of the continent’s most vertically integrated telecommunications businesses, combining mobile connectivity with extensive infrastructure ownership.
The transaction also underscores a broader trend reshaping Africa’s digital economy, where telecoms companies are evolving into technology and digital infrastructure platforms supporting AI, cloud services, fintech, enterprise connectivity and digital public infrastructure.
For policymakers, investors and the wider technology ecosystem, the deal highlights the growing recognition that digital infrastructure is becoming as strategically important to Africa’s future as transport, power and other traditional infrastructure sectors.
With shareholder approval now secured, attention shifts to regulators whose decisions will determine whether one of Africa’s most consequential telecoms transactions proceeds to completion.
If approved, the acquisition is expected to reshape the competitive dynamics of digital infrastructure across the continent and reinforce MTN’s ambition to play a leading role in building Africa’s AI-enabled digital future.
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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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