Nigeria’s Ntel Gears Up for 2026 Relaunch with New Funding and Leadership
Nigeria’s pioneer 4G LTE operator, Ntel, is preparing a comeback to the telecom market after securing fresh funding to revive its operations. The company, owned by NatCom Development and Investment Limited, plans to resume full-scale operations in early 2026.
The move marks a significant step in Ntel’s efforts to re-enter an industry it exited years ago due to financial and operational challenges. The new funding, reportedly around ₦30 billion, is part of a broader recovery strategy involving the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which is backing the company’s restructuring and revival efforts.
Leadership and Strategic Direction
As part of the restructuring, Ntel has undergone leadership changes. Soji Maurice-Diya has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, replacing Adrian Wood, the former MTN Nigeria CEO who previously led the company.
Under its new management, Ntel aims to reposition itself as a competitive player in Nigeria’s telecom landscape. Sources suggest that the company will adopt a hybrid model, combining its existing telecom infrastructure with Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) partnerships. This approach would allow Ntel to leverage existing infrastructure from other operators rather than rebuild a network from scratch, significantly reducing capital costs.
Infrastructure and Assets
Despite its period of inactivity, Ntel still retains valuable telecom assets, including fiber backhaul infrastructure, spectrum licenses, and network sites from its earlier operations. These assets will form the backbone of its relaunch plan, helping the company to scale services quickly once operations resume.
Industry watchers note that the company’s existing licenses and infrastructure position it to re-enter the market faster than a new entrant would, provided regulatory renewals and compliance requirements are completed.
Focus and Market Position
Ntel’s revival strategy reportedly includes a stronger focus on broadband and data-driven services, reflecting the growing demand for affordable, high-speed internet in Nigeria. The company’s earlier operations were centered on 4G LTE services, and the new business plan is expected to expand on that foundation.
With Nigeria’s telecom market dominated by players such as MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, Ntel’s re-entry will add a new layer of competition, potentially improving pricing and service options for consumers.
Regulatory and Market Readiness
Ntel’s comeback will depend heavily on regulatory approvals from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Industry observers expect the company to formalize its operating licenses and finalize network-sharing agreements before its planned relaunch.
The comeback also aligns with the NCC’s push to increase broadband penetration and expand digital inclusion across Nigeria. If successful, Ntel’s return could contribute to the government’s broadband targets for 2026 and beyond.
Industry Impact
Ntel’s re-entry comes at a time when Nigeria’s telecom sector is experiencing renewed investor interest and innovation, especially around broadband and virtual network services. The introduction of more MVNOs in recent years has diversified the market, and Ntel’s experience and infrastructure could give it a strategic advantage in the emerging space.
While the company has not disclosed specific product offerings or pricing plans, the 2026 relaunch is expected to reintroduce Ntel as a competitive broadband and mobile services provider.
