MTN Nigeria has refuted media reports suggesting that IHS Towers offered improved terms for the lease of 2,500 sites matching the conditions of ATC, which recently secured the contract through a competitive bidding process.
According to MTN, these reports are untrue, and the company has not received any revised offer from IHS.
In September, MTN announced that the lease for the 2,500 sites, originally set to expire in 2024 and 2025, had been awarded to ATC after a transparent procurement process.
The company emphasized the finality of the agreement with ATC, citing a rigorous process involving governance approvals.
“Our preference is always for bilateral renewal, subject to competitive pricing and terms. In this instance, the ATC proposal was superior,” stated Tobechukwu Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer.
MTN expressed its commitment to constructive engagement with IHS on future opportunities, including the renewal of towers set for renewal in 2025.
Okigbo added, “Other opportunities for value optimization will arise, and we are hopeful that participating parties, including IHS, will present a compelling proposition.”
Dismissal of allegations regarding network disruptions and negative environmental impacts accompanied MTN’s confidence in ATC’s ability to ensure a smooth transition between towers.
Okigbo stated, “Such allegations are factually incorrect and misleading. Tower transfers between two infrastructure companies do not necessarily lead to network disruption.”
MTN expects ATC to adhere strictly to NCC guidelines and NESREA regulations on deploying telecom sites.
Okigbo emphasized MTN’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, highlighting ATC’s commitment to operating green sites that significantly reduce carbon emissions.
“Through our partnership with ATC, we are setting the stage for a new era of connectivity in Nigeria, one that not only meets the growing demands of our customers but also aligns with our focus on expense efficiencies, commitment to sustainability, and environmental responsibility,” concluded Okigbo.
