Swift Telephone Network Limited has secured a Unified Access Service Licence from the Nigerian Communications Commission, paving the way for the company to provide mobile and other telecommunications services in Nigeria.
The licence authorises STN to offer voice, data, fixed and mobile telecommunications services, potentially making it a new competitor to established operators including MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria.
According to the NCC’s database of licensed operators, STN’s licence took effect on October 1, 2026, and is renewable after 10 years.
The company said the licence marks a major transition from its origins as a telephone call service to an independent Nigerian telecommunications company.
STN Chief Executive Officer, Oluwole Adetuyi, described the development as a new phase in the company’s growth.
“This UASL is not just a licence. It is a new chapter. It represents where we started, what we have endured, how we have evolved, and where we are going. We are building in Nigeria, for Nigeria,” he said.
STN said it plans to invest in telecommunications infrastructure, expand connectivity and support efforts to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide.
The company also plans to invest in skills development and training for Nigerian engineers, technicians and digital professionals.
It said it would prioritise partnerships with local service providers, contractors and vendors while working with global technology partners to strengthen technical capabilities.
STN also plans to create employment and business opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs in distribution, retail and support services.
Adetuyi said the company’s ambition was to contribute to the development of Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Director of Legal and Regulatory Services at STN, Yetunde Okafor, said the company would announce strategic partnerships, infrastructure rollout plans and programmes for engaging investors and other stakeholders in the coming weeks.
She said the initiatives would form part of preparations for the commencement of STN’s commercial operations under the UASL.
STN’s entry comes as Nigeria’s telecommunications market remains dominated by a few major operators.
NCC industry statistics for July 2026 showed that MTN had 100.86 million active subscribers, representing 51.76 per cent of the market, while Airtel had 66.76 million subscribers and a 34.26 per cent share.
Globacom had 23.63 million subscribers, representing 12.13 per cent of the market, while 9mobile, now operating as T2, had 3.61 million subscribers and a 1.85 per cent share.
STN’s eventual impact on the market will depend on factors including its infrastructure rollout, spectrum arrangements, network investment, pricing and ability to attract subscribers.