MTN Nigeria’s subsidiary, Visafone, has began the test-run of its fourth generation long term evolution (4G LTE) Internet technology service for smart phone users in the country
The launch of 4G LTE services by the merged entity of MTN and Visafone aims to roll-out superior high-speed Internet services in major cities ad empower Nigerians with the latest mobile broadband technology, a company press release said. The telecom operator expects the move to drive broadband penetration in the country from under 10 per cent presently to the targeted 30 per cent by 2018, in line with the Federal Government’s broadband plan and target.
According to MTN executive Amina Oyagbola, the company is determined to deepen broadband penetration in the country. “Our recent license acquisition further demonstrates our faith in the future of Nigeria. We believe in supporting the positive transformation of Nigeria and we have demonstrated this belief through the level of our investment since 2001, which currently stands at approximately US$16bn,” she said.
MTN Nigeria consumer marketing general manager Richard Iweanoge said that the 4G LTE technology will be launched with the sole objective of providing Nigerians with the best, fastest and most competitive ICT services for all stakeholders.
“We are pleased to set the pace once again as we break new boundaries with this test run, which will be available for now for our Visafone customers, who are provisioned on the 800Mhz band. When we roll-out fully, especially with our 2.6Ghz spectrum, the launch will help to enhance customer experience for our more than 60mn subscribers, while ensuring greater coverage, access, affordability and ultimately a smart lifestyle for everyone,” he said.
