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Move will enable telco’s local unit to gain clearance for new tariff plans and promotions, amongst other things.
MTN this week revealed that Nigeria’s telecoms regulator has reinstated its services to its local unit, a move that will enable it to push ahead with launching new tariff plans and special offers.
The Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) suspended regulatory services to MTN Nigeria in October, having slapped a hefty fine on the telco for failing to disconnect millions of unregistered SIM cards.
Debate over the fine, which was reduced to US$3.9 billion from $5.2 billion is ongoing. Last week media reports suggested that MTN has offered to pay $1.5 billion to settle the issue, but the telco itself urged shareholders to exercise caution when reacting to such reports.
It is unclear whether the reinstatement of regulatory services is in any way linked to a fine settlement.
MTN declared that the suspension had been lifted, effective immediately, in a brief stock exchange announcement on Tuesday.
"This restoration of regulatory services will enable MTN Nigeria to pursue the necessary approvals, in accordance with the NCC regulatory process, for new tariff plans and promotions as well as other regulatory matters," the South Africa-based operator said.
