The Bayobab Group (previously known as MTN GlobalConnect) has announced that it has received a National Long-Distance Operator License from regulatory authorities in Nigeria. This license will help meet the growing demand for data within the country's borders and mark the beginning of a new era of connectivity. Bayobab's Nigerian subsidiary can now facilitate long-distance traffic, which will lead to improved communication, collaboration, and innovation opportunities.
Frédéric Schepens, CEO of
Bayobab Group, expressed, “This achievement marks a transformative moment for us,
as we look forward to contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria's
digital economy. At Bayobab, we are committed to pushing the
boundaries of what's possible in the realm of connectivity.” He
further emphasised, “This
license is a testament to our dedication to delivering seamless and advanced
connectivity solutions to our clients and partners. We believe that
connectivity is the foundation upon which innovation thrives, and our
unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation will continue to guide us as
we embark on this new chapter of delivering next-gen digital connectivity
across Nigeria.” Concludes Frédéricc.
In a dynamic era of digital
transformation, Nigeria’s connectivity landscape has undergone remarkable
growth, altering how its population accesses information, conducts business and engages globally. With a population exceeding 200 million, as reported by
GSMA Intelligence, the adoption of digital services by governments, businesses,
and consumers is fundamentally reshaping daily life in Nigeria. Mobile technology
is playing an instrumental role in the nation's economy, where mobile broadband
is the predominant means of internet access, unlocking new possibilities. The
surge in digital services, ranging from the realms of mobile financial
solutions to dynamic e-learning platforms, has ushered in a revolution in the
way Nigerians engage with essential services, fueling an escalated demand for
data.
Nigeria is recognised as Africa’s
largest ICT market, accounting for about 82% of the continent’s telecom
subscribers and 29% of its internet usage. In alignment with the visionary
Fiber Ambitions Policy set forth by the Nigerian Communications Commission
(NCC), Bayobab Nigeria is poised to make significant contributions towards
shaping this transformative landscape. As a principal player, Bayobab Nigeria
is committed to enhancing connectivity, thus further propelling Nigeria's
digital evolution.
Josephine Sarouk, Managing Director
of Bayobab Nigeria, shares, "This license embodies the pulse of
innovation, the cadence of progress, and the harmony of collaboration. We are
not just connecting points; we are weaving an intricate tapestry of
possibilities through seamless connectivity, enabling the benefits of a modern
connected life across Nigeria.”
As Nigeria's connectivity landscape
continues to rapidly evolve, it stands on the cusp of even greater growth. The
nation's embrace of technology, coupled with ongoing efforts to promote digital
inclusion, paints a promising picture of a future where connectivity emerges as
the driving force behind economic growth, innovation, and societal progress.
By: Kanto Okanta