The Federal Government has signalled it will closely examine the proposed acquisition by MTN Group of IHS Towers, underscoring growing regulatory scrutiny of infrastructure ownership in Nigeria’s telecom industry.
In a statement, Communications Minister Bosun Tijani confirmed that the government is working with relevant agencies to assess recent structural shifts in the sector. Officials say telecom infrastructure remains too critical to national security, economic expansion, and digital inclusion to be left without careful oversight.
The review comes as operators recover from a difficult stretch marked by foreign exchange pressure and rising operating costs. Profitability has improved in recent quarters, with renewed capital spending pointing to stabilisation across the industry.
The News Chronicle understands that authorities are not opposing consolidation outright, but are determined to ensure any deal aligns with Nigeria’s wider digital economy objectives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. At the heart of the review will be competition safeguards, consumer protection, and long-term market balance.
Tower infrastructure underpins broadband growth, financial services delivery, and emerging technologies, including 5G. Analysts note that while consolidation can improve efficiency and strengthen balance sheets, it also raises concerns about access and pricing dynamics.
Government officials insist Nigeria remains open to investment, but transactions involving strategic digital assets will continue to face scrutiny as the country deepens its broadband and connectivity ambitions.
