Nigeria’s ntel Poised for Dramatic 2026 Revival with AMCON-Backed Funding

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Tech Economy reports that Nigeria’s telecom operator, ntel, which is owned by NatCom Development & Investment Limited (NATCOM), has secured undisclosed funding to facilitate a highly anticipated relaunch in the first quarter of 2026. 

This capital infusion, orchestrated by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), arrives as the company intensifies efforts to emerge from financial turmoil and reclaim its footing in Nigeria’s fiercely competitive telecommunications landscape.

The investment follows AMCON’s takeover of complete management control just over a year ago, after Ntel declared bankruptcy in 2024. A source close to the developments revealed that the new funds will enable ntel to overhaul its network infrastructure, reinstate voice and data services, and roll out a streamlined, more agile business model.

This funding injection and the forthcoming relaunch form key elements of a larger plan to prepare Ntel for independence once AMCON bows out. Currently holding a 55% controlling interest, AMCON anticipates divesting its shares to private investors after stabilising the operation.

According to Tech Cabal, AMCON’s involvement dates back to a 2015 bailout of the then-struggling NATCOM consortium, which had acquired the remnants of the defunct NITEL and MTel. AMCON acted as both a lender and a part-owner when private investors stopped investing and tried to protect critical national resources, including spectrum licenses, large fibre networks, and submarine cable access rights.

Although AMCON’s support has averted NTEL’s complete downfall, its extended oversight has deterred potential private buyers concerned about government influence and lingering debts. Even with President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to offload the operator—”even for scrap” if needed—AMCON maintains that restoration takes precedence.

For its resurgence, ntel plans to adopt a hybrid model, operating as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) while capitalising on its proprietary infrastructure, according to insights from two knowledgeable insiders. The company boasts over 3,500 kilometres of fibre-optic cabling nationwide and more than 600 base stations, primarily inherited from its historical national backbones and metropolitan systems.

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In preparation for its market reentry, Intel has initiated a discreet hiring push, targeting expertise in administration, technology, and finance, according to sources. Open positions include Regional Admin Coordinator, Front Desk Officer, and Financial Planning Assistant Manager—clear indicators that the once-idle operator is stirring back to life.

Meanwhile, AMCON is generating revenue from ntel’s assets via infrastructure-sharing arrangements. A notable deal involves leasing spectrum to MTN Nigeria, which grants access to ntel’s frequencies. This includes access to Ntel’s frequencies in multiple states and the provision of interim financial support during the revival push.

Should this trajectory hold, Ntel stands to etch its name as Nigeria’s pioneering state-rescued telecom firm, orchestrating a triumphant return.

The revival of telecom operators like ntel could significantly boost Africa’s and Nigeria’s tourism sectors by enhancing digital connectivity, which is crucial for modern travel. Improved telecommunications infrastructure enables seamless online bookings, real-time navigation, virtual tours, and social media promotion of destinations, directly increasing tourist arrivals and receipts.

In Nigeria, better ICT adoption can unlock untapped tourism potential by making attractions more accessible through apps and digital marketing, potentially adding billions to the GDP through visitor spending. This is estimated to have a total impact of US$7.9 billion in 2019, pre-pandemic figures.

Across Africa, ICT and infrastructure have a positive correlation with tourism development, fostering sustainable growth by offering innovative products, such as ecotourism apps, and improving mobility for both urban and rural visitors.

For instance, mobile penetration enhances information sharing, reducing barriers and attracting international travellers, while high-speed internet supports hybrid experiences blending physical and digital tourism.

Ultimately, a stronger telecom sector could enhance Nigeria’s tourism competitiveness, attracting more investment and generating jobs in the hospitality and related sectors.

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FAQs

1. What is ntel, and what is its background in Nigeria’s telecom sector?  

NTel is a Nigerian telecommunications operator owned by NatCom Development & Investment Limited (NATCOM), which was initially formed through the acquisition of the defunct NITEL and MTel. It has faced financial challenges but is now gearing up for a revival under AMCON’s guidance.

2. When is Ntel planning to relaunch its services?  

ntel aims to relaunch its voice and data services in the first quarter of 2026, following a period of network rebuilding and strategic repositioning.

3. How is AMCON involved in ntel’s revival?  

AMCON holds a 55% stake in ntel, having intervened in 2015 to prevent its collapse. It has provided fresh funding for the relaunch, and it plans to sell its shares once the company stabilises.

4. What business model will ntel adopt upon its return?  

NTel plans a hybrid approach, functioning as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) while utilising its own infrastructure, including over 3,500 kilometres of fibre optics and more than 600 base stations.

5. How could Ntel’s comeback affect Nigeria’s broader economy? 

A successful revival could enhance competition in the telecom market, improve connectivity, and indirectly boost sectors such as tourism through better digital access, thereby contributing to GDP growth and job creation.