Nigeria’s first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Vitel Wireless, has announced a major breakthrough after completing interconnectivity with all major mobile network operators in the country. This achievement means subscribers on the Vitel network can now seamlessly make and receive calls from users on MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and 9mobile.
The development was made public through an official statement released by Vitel Wireless on Monday. The company also revealed that it is the first MVNO in Nigeria to receive a dedicated number series, 0712, from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This marks a historic step forward for the telecom industry in Nigeria, setting a new benchmark for other players in the emerging MVNO space.
According to the company, the successful interconnectivity demonstrates the viability and potential of MVNOs in Nigeria, particularly in a market that is rapidly evolving. The milestone was achieved through a combination of direct fibre connections with some mobile operators and indirect routing using third-party providers. Engineers from Vitel Wireless, Wireless Technology Labs, and Interconnect Clearinghouse Nigeria worked closely with their counterparts from MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile to complete the process.
Vitel Wireless is also leading in several other areas. It is the first MVNO in Nigeria to issue a national numbering plan, obtain national and international routing codes, launch a location awareness network in Africa, and unveil a nationwide rollout plan. These developments reflect the company’s goal to be at the forefront of telecom innovation in Nigeria.
Chairman and CEO of Vitel Wireless, Kenneth Emeka Nwabueze, MFR, expressed confidence in the company’s direction and the broader opportunities for MVNOs in Nigeria.
“We are gathering momentum for our big launch. We are proud to be showing what’s possible for MVNOs while also creating a path for others to follow. By leveraging our years of experience in Nigeria’s telecom industry, we are opening up new possibilities where there used to be none,” he said.
Nwabueze also thanked the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for its guidance and regulatory support, noting that their timely interventions were crucial to achieving the interconnectivity milestone.
The interconnection success comes just weeks after Vitel Wireless began its nationwide pilot phase in May 2025. The company now plans a full national rollout in July 2025, with the aim of providing next-generation mobile services to millions of Nigerians across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
With the telecom market increasingly leaning towards digital services, Vitel Wireless promises to deliver full-spectrum mobile solutions, including voice, SMS, and data services. The firm also plans to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data-driven analytics to offer smarter, more responsive mobile experiences for customers.
In addition to everyday telecom services, Vitel has ambitious plans to deliver personal safety tools, and develop scalable platforms for government social welfare programmes, demonstrating its focus on using mobile technology for both personal and public good.
Following the licensing of 46 MVNOs by the NCC, Vitel’s latest achievement places it as a trailblazer, offering a roadmap for new entrants into the virtual network space. As the first to complete full interconnectivity, Vitel Wireless has taken a critical step toward transforming Nigeria’s telecom landscape and expanding access to reliable, cost-effective mobile services.
