MTN Nigeria has responded to recent media reports suggesting that IHS Towers has proposed enhanced terms for leasing 2,500 sites, matching those awarded to ATC. The reports claim that IHS made the improved offer after ATC won the contract in a highly competitive bidding process. However, MTN categorically denies receiving any revised offer from IHS and emphasizes the conclusiveness of the agreement with ATC.
The lease for the 2,500 sites, originally set to expire in 2024 and 2025, was awarded to ATC in September after a comprehensive and transparent procurement process. MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Tobechukwu Okigbo, affirmed the finality of the agreement, asserting that it underwent rigorous scrutiny and obtained the highest governance approvals.
“Our preference is always for bilateral renewal, subject to competitive pricing and terms. In this instance the ATC proposal was superior.”
“Our preference is always for bilateral renewal, subject to competitive pricing and terms. In this instance, the ATC proposal was superior,” stated Okigbo.
While MTN remains open to engaging with IHS on future opportunities, including the renewal of upcoming tower vintages in 2025, the company remains firm on the finality of the ATC deal.
“Other opportunities for value optimization will arise and we will undertake a similar exacting process. We are hopeful that participating parties including IHS will present a compelling proposition,” Okigbo said
Okigbo dismissed allegations of potential network disruptions and negative environmental impacts resulting from the contract with ATC. He clarified that tower transfers between infrastructure companies do not necessarily lead to network disruptions and are devoid of negative environmental consequences. MTN expresses confidence in ATC’s plans, anticipating a seamless transition between towers.
Through the partnership with ATC, MTN aims to usher in a new era of connectivity in Nigeria, aligning with customer demands, expense efficiencies, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
MTN expects ATC to adhere strictly to guidelines set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and regulations of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) regarding telecom site deployment.
“We are deeply committed to achieving net-zero emissions, and part of the differentiated value ATC provides is a commitment to operating green sites, ensuring a significant reduction in carbon emissions,” concluded Okigbo, refuting claims of harmful environmental impact and highlighting the positive contributions of the ATC partnership.
