Nigerian telecommunications company ntel has officially discontinued its traditional voice and data services, announcing a strategic pivot toward digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and technology-driven solutions. The company, formerly known as Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), unveiled the transformation during a relaunch on Monday, marking a significant turnaround after years of financial struggles and intense competition in Nigeria's telecom market.
New Focus on Infrastructure and AI
Rather than relying on revenue from phone calls and internet subscriptions, ntel says its future growth will come from commercializing telecom infrastructure, fibre networks, towers, power systems, and real estate assets. The shift reflects a global trend where telecom operators find greater value in leasing infrastructure rather than offering retail voice and data services, which have been undercut by platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, and FaceTime.
According to a report by TechCabal, ntel struggled to compete with larger operators such as MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile after launching commercial 4G LTE services in 2016. The financial difficulties eventually led to the intervention of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), one of the company's biggest creditors, which is now supporting its latest revival.
Three New Business Divisions
As part of the restructuring, ntel has divided its operations into three specialized companies. Beam will oversee telecommunications services, including the rollout of WakaGo, a fixed wireless broadband service powered by eSIM technology and Tarana Wireless' AirFibre platform. The service is expected to target frequent travelers by allowing seamless connectivity in more than 190 countries through international roaming.
According to ntel Chief Executive Officer Soji Maurice-Diya, the company is leveraging technology supplied by US-based Tarana Wireless to deliver faster and more reliable broadband services. Titan will focus on monetizing ntel's extensive infrastructure portfolio, including over 600 telecom towers, more than 3,500 kilometers of fibre optic network, and its power assets. Eden, the third arm, will manage the company's real estate investments, including commercial properties in Victoria Island, Lagos, residential developments in Abuja's Wuse 2 district, and Nova Place in Port Harcourt, as reported by BusinessDay.
Global Trend Toward Infrastructure Ownership
ntel's decision mirrors a growing global trend where telecom companies shift attention from traditional voice and data services to infrastructure ownership. Across Africa, companies including MTN and Airtel have already adopted similar models by spinning off or selling telecom towers and fibre assets to specialist infrastructure firms while concentrating on retail mobile services. Industry experts believe this strategy could ultimately benefit consumers, as shared infrastructure reduces overall network costs, potentially leading to improved network quality, wider coverage, and more affordable services.
Speaking during the relaunch, ntel's Head of Business Operations, Yvonne Alozie, described the transformation as far more than a corporate rebranding. According to her, the company is entering a new era built on strategic partnerships, innovation, and the ambition to become a leading provider of digital infrastructure that supports Nigeria's growing digital economy and future AI-powered connectivity.
