MTN Nigeria says award of tower contract to ATC for 2,500 sites is final

Lagos, Nigeria: MTN Nigeria has taken note of media reports saying that IHS Towers has offered the company improved terms for the lease of 2,500 sites that match the terms of ATC, which recently won the contract following a highly competitive bidding process.

These reports are not true and MTN has not received any revised offer from IHS. We announced in September that the lease for the 2,500 sites (which was due to expire in 2024 and 2025) had been awarded to ATC after a very fair and transparent procurement process.

“The agreement with ATC over the 2,500 sites is final, having gone through a rigorous process involving our highest governance approvals,” said MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer Tobechukwu Okigbo. “Our preference is always for bilateral renewal, subject to competitive pricing and terms. In this instance the ATC proposal was superior.”

MTN will continue to engage constructively with IHS on further opportunities that arise, including the renewal of the next vintages of towers that come up for renewals in 2025. “Other opportunities for value optimisation 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.

He dismissed allegations that contracting the sites to ATC would lead to network disruptions and have a negative environmental impact: “Such allegations are factually incorrect and misleading. Tower transfers between two infrastructure companies do not necessarily lead to network disruption.”

MTN is confident that ATC’s plans will ensure a smooth transition between towers.

“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,” Okigbo said.

MTN expects ATC to adhere strictly to NCC guidelines and NESREA regulations on deploying telecoms sites.

“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 significant reduction in carbon emissions. Contrary to the allegations of harmful environmental impact, the partnership with ATC will reduce greenhouse gases,” he concluded.