MTN Nigeria is set to resume full telecommunications service in Kogi State by Wednesday following the resolution of a regulatory dispute with the state government.
The week-long suspension, which disrupted connectivity for thousands of users, was linked to allegations that MTN underreported the scope of its fibre optic network in the state. The Kogi State Utility Infrastructure Management and Compliance Agency (KUIMCA) had accused the telecom operator of failing to meet operational disclosure standards.
Speaking on the issue, the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) confirmed that both parties have now reached an agreement, clearing the way for service restoration.
Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON’s Chairman, stated on Tuesday, “We have resolved the issues. Services will be fully restored on Wednesday.”
The shutdown followed a regulatory clampdown after KUIMCA officials claimed that MTN’s declared infrastructure footprint significantly underestimated its actual network coverage.
A verification process reportedly revealed more extensive fibre installations than previously disclosed, prompting a reassessment of applicable levies.
The disagreement escalated after MTN challenged the state’s demand for higher charges.
The dispute eventually led to a court order authorizing the shutdown of MTN’s network facilities within Kogi.
Also, the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) accused the telecom firm of failing to present accurate documentation during tax compliance reviews.
The disruption affected voice and data services with significant impact on business operations, financial services and public communications.
Industry observers have raised concern over the growing number of state-level regulatory confrontations with telecom operators, warning that such disruptions could hinder Nigeria’s digital economy growth and undermine investor confidence in the sector.
As of the time of filing this report, MTN Nigeria had yet to issue an official statement regarding the resolution.
