MTN Nigeria has entered into a strategic partnership with CREI/ieng to launch a rural Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) initiative aimed at expanding telecommunications coverage to underserved rural communities across the country.
Under the banner “We Are Live on MTN Now,” the partnership has successfully completed its first phase of deployment. This initial rollout includes rural sites across Nigeria, several of which are already operational and significantly extending MTN Nigeria’s network reach.
These sites deliver 2G, 3G, services and upgrade plan to 4G, ensuring high network availability levels exceeding 98.5%. The infrastructure includes towers ranging from 20 to over 30 meters in height, tailored to meet the demands of local terrain and population density.
A key feature of this initiative is its full reliance on solar energy. By eliminating diesel generators, the project completely avoids direct CO₂ emissions and significantly reduces indirect emissions by minimizing fuel transport and routine site visits. Additionally, each site is equipped with Remote Monitoring and Management Systems (RMMS), enabling real-time performance tracking and reducing the need for on-site maintenance.
Building on this momentum, MTN Nigeria and CREI/ieng plan to scale up the deployment of additional sites in the near future. This continued expansion aligns with Nigeria’s national broadband objectives and supports the broader goal of closing the digital divide in rural regions.
This partnership establishes a scalable and sustainable model for rural connectivity in Nigeria, one that combines clean energy solutions, modern infrastructure, and innovative deployment frameworks to accelerate network expansion efficiently and responsibly. As the rollout progresses, it will offer valuable insights into achieving high-impact rural coverage while optimizing both environmental and operational performance.
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