Vitel Wireless Makes History as First Nigerian MVNO to Fully Link with All Major Mobile Networks

Vitel Wireless has announced a groundbreaking achievement as the first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Nigeria to successfully complete full interconnection with all four major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs): MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom (Glo), and 9mobile. This development enables Vitel subscribers to communicate directly with users on any of these networks, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The company, which had previously secured the first dedicated MVNO number series (0712) from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), continues to lead innovation in the sector. With this full interconnectivity, Vitel sets a new precedent for operational capability and service delivery within Nigeria’s emerging MVNO landscape.

This advancement comes at a time when the NCC has licensed 46 MVNOs to promote competition and expand service options across the country. Vitel has distinguished itself by being the first to achieve multiple key milestones, including receiving a national numbering plan, national and international routing codes, launching Africa’s first location awareness network, and unveiling a comprehensive rollout strategy.

“We are accelerating toward our nationwide launch and are proud to demonstrate what is possible for MVNOs in Nigeria,” said Kenneth Emeka Nwabueze, MFR, Chairman and CEO of Vitel Wireless. “We thank the NCC for its proactive support, which has been critical in achieving this level of interconnection. We are committed to unlocking new possibilities in Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem.”

The technical integration was accomplished through a combination of direct fiber connections with certain MNOs and indirect links via third-party intermediaries. The initiative was a collaborative effort involving Vitel Wireless, Wireless Technology Labs (WTL), Interconnect Clearinghouse Nigeria (ICN), and engineers from MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.

Vitel Wireless began its pilot phase across the country in May 2025, with a full commercial launch planned for July 2025, bringing next-generation mobile services to millions of Nigerians.