Telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria experienced substantial gains in Q1 2023 as thousands of subscribers switched networks, according to data published by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
MTN emerged as the sole beneficiary among the four mobile operators, as 6,855 subscribers ported across networks.
In this period, 4,765 customers migrated from Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile to MTN. Airtel gained 1,173 subscribers from other networks, while Glo attracted 620 customers through porting. However, 9mobile suffered the most significant loss, with 4,309 subscribers departing its network.
Subscribers cited various reasons for porting, such as more affordable call/data rates, improved service quality, enticing packages offered by other operators, and promotional offers.
MTN’s success in attracting a significant portion of the ported subscribers can be attributed to its 5G service, which provides high-speed internet. MTN became the first mobile network operator to introduce 5G in Nigeria in September, and it has since focused on expanding its home broadband strategy, resulting in a substantial increase in its subscriber base.
The deployment of 5G technology has enabled MTN to offer faster speeds, lower latency, and unlock new use cases for consumers and enterprises. The network’s efforts in this area have contributed to a 14.6 percent rise in its active user base to 38 million, as well as a 68.7 percent surge in fintech active subscribers to 11.2 million.
MTN remains committed to supporting communities, investing in the coverage and capacity of its 4G network, and expanding its 5G sites. The network emphasizes expense efficiencies and disciplined capital allocation.
