Airtel Africa’s strong performance in Q1 2025
Airtel Africa Plc reported a Q1 2025 profit after tax of $156 million, a 408% increase from $31 million last year. The group revenue grew by 22.4% to $1.4 billion, with a constant currency growth of 24.9%.
The revenue boost was attributed to tariff adjustments in Nigeria and growth in Francophone Africa. Mobile services revenue rose by 20.8%, while mobile money revenue increased by 31%. Operating profit climbed 33% to $446 million, backed by a 29.8% growth in EBITDA to $679 million, improving EBITDA margins by 276 basis points.
Airtel Africa’s strong performance in Q1 2025 was driven by several key factors, including tariff adjustments in Nigeria and sustained revenue growth in Francophone Africa. The company experienced a 20.8% increase in mobile services revenue, reflecting robust demand, while mobile money revenue soared by 31%, particularly in East and Francophone regions. Additionally, improved stability in the operating environment positively impacted financial outcomes, enabling enhanced overall performance.
Comment: This is good news. It means that telecommunication companies in Nigeria are now being profitable. The increase in tariff worked. It’s time for the TELCOs to invest.
Globacom introduces New Insurance Platform for Subscribers
In a groundbreaking move for mobile phone users in Nigeria, telecommunications giant Globacom, in partnership with technology firm Cubecover, has introduced a revolutionary device protection service.
Announced via an email statement on Thursday, this initiative marks the first of its kind in the country, offering affordable coverage against screen and water damage.
Both new and existing Glo subscribers can take advantage of this service with premiums starting as low as N50 per day, making it an attractive option for many users concerned about device maintenance.
According to Mr. Mojeed Aluko, the Head of Value Added Services at Globacom, subscribers can benefit from free screen repairs or replacements worth up to N50,000, depending on the extent of the damage. However, customers should note that the protection plan becomes active only after maintaining a valid subscription for 30 consecutive days. This innovative service not only aims to enhance customer satisfaction but also provides peace of mind for users by ensuring their valuable devices are protected against unforeseen mishaps.
Comment: Let’s get this to the next level and create avenues for people to purchase or upgrade their phones. I bet you, people will happily pay in small tranches to purchase the phone of their dreams. This model works!
NCC to Conduct Proof of Concept Trial for Long-Term Evolution (LTE)
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to conduct a Proof of Concept (PoC) trial to assess the feasibility of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology within the 1800MHz duplex gap, specifically between 1785 and 1805MHz, in conjunction with existing GSM technology in nearby frequency bands. This initiative aligns with the NCC’s mandate under Section 121 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which authorizes the Commission to manage and regulate the frequency spectrum in the communications sector. The 1800MHz band, crucial for 2G mobile services, is categorized into uplink channels (1710 – 1785 MHz) and downlink channels (1805 – 1880 MHz), with a 20MHz duplex gap separating the two.
Recent studies by the Commission have showcased encouraging results regarding the successful coexistence of LTE within the duplex gap and GSM technology in adjacent spectrum bands. This potential integration not only aims to optimize the use of the 1800MHz band but also to enhance the overall quality of mobile communication services in Nigeria. The trial represents a significant step forward in modernizing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure, potentially paving the way for advanced mobile technologies to flourish alongside existing services. Expressions of Interest (EOI) are expected to be submitted to the Commission on or before the close of business on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
Comment: NCC has been introducing some far-reaching reforms to the sector. As a regulator of a dynamic sector, they must without fail keep up with the changing times.
NCC’s New Initiative Aimed at Improving the Governance and Regulation of Telecommunications Equipment Deployment
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a new initiative aimed at improving the governance and regulation of telecommunications equipment deployment. This initiative introduces advanced assessment mechanisms designed to tackle challenges such as transparency in fund allocation, coordination among stakeholders, and the concentration of infrastructure in urban areas. By implementing these regulations, the NCC seeks to standardize practices, identify underserved regions, and monitor the progress of funded projects effectively.
Additionally, the NCC highlights the need to enhance its internal capabilities to process data and evaluate operator performance, especially in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With Nigeria’s population exceeding 223.8 million, making it Africa’s largest market, there remains a significant disparity in internet access, with around 120 million individuals lacking mobile internet connectivity. The NCC’s reforms are focused on fostering balanced, inclusive, and sustainable digital growth while ensuring accountability for both public and private sector investments within the telecommunications industry.
Comment: Nigeria’s telecommunications industry is growing and the NCC is meeting up. I like the approach of addressing corporate governance issues in the industry. When that works, almost everything else works.
