Africa's largest cellular operator, MTN, will upgrade its existing network in Nigeria as it transitions to an IP-based solution.
The company has chosen dual-listed Alcatel-Lucent to transform MTN's DSL access and aggregation network. Alcatel-Lucent's solution will enable MTN Nigeria to transform its time division multiplexing-based (TDM) transport networks into an all-IP powered network.
MTN Nigeria has more than 30 million subscribers and has invested 563 billion naira, or R24.6 billion, in its infrastructure. In January 2001, it spent $285 million on one of four GSM licences in Nigeria. In 2006, MTN commissioned a 7 815km fibre-optic network.
MTN Nigeria CEO Ahmad Farroukh says the company is “pleased to partner with Alcatel-Lucent to deliver a solution that will improve customer experience”.
Alcatel-Lucent says transforming from a legacy TDM-based network to next-generation IP will enable MTN to generate new revenue streams by leveraging broadband IP to deliver video-rich content and multimedia data services.
Adolfo Hernandez, president of Alcatel-Lucent's activities in Europe, Middle East and Africa, notes the network will help MTN cut operating costs. The company will also have a network in place which supports a smooth transition to long-term evolution.
The IP network is based on Alcatel-Lucent's High Leverage Network architecture. Alcatel-Lucent will provide MTN Nigeria with a set of services, including project management, engineering, training, survey, installation and cabling, as part of the agreement.
The value of the deal was not disclosed.
Share
