FG to review MTN's $6.2B IHS acquisition for national security
Federal Government announces comprehensive regulatory review of MTN Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of IHS Towers, citing national security and economic importance of telecoms infrastructure. Minister Bosun Tijani stated the Ministry will assess the transaction's impact on sector health, consumer protection, and alignment with Renewed Hope policy directions. The all-cash deal would make IHS a MTN subsidiary, following weeks of negotiations. MTN already holds significant minority stake in IHS, Africa's largest independent tower operator. Government emphasizes strategic importance of telecom assets for banking, fintech, e-commerce, and digital services. Recent sector recovery includes improved profitability and infrastructure investment. Review aims to ensure consolidation protects consumers and sustains long-term sector viability.