New telco begins nationwide operations

Nigeria's newest mobile operator, Lebara, has commenced nationwide operation, offering its SIM cards through a network of retail outlets and registered agents.

A statement said Nigerians can pick up a physical SIM card or activate an eSIM through participating retailers.

Chief executive officer of Lebara Nigeria Teniola Stuffman said: "We are excited to officially go live and make Lebara SIMs available to Nigerians. This is an important step for us as we begin to bring our services directly to customers.

"Our focus is on making connectivity simple and accessible while building digital experiences that give our customers more value."

Lebara said it had already brought more than 1,000 retail agents into its distribution network before launch, with Slot stores among the outlets where customers can access its services from day one.

The initial service bundle covers mobile voice, SMS and data, alongside features such as usage tracking, cloud storage, Buy Now Pay Later options for eligible devices and access to LebaraPlay, the company's entertainment platform.

Lebara is entering as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), meaning it delivers services to customers using infrastructure owned by existing network operators rather than building its own.

This approach allows the company to compete on pricing, distribution and customer experience without the capital outlay that comes with constructing a full mobile network.

The company's Nigerian operations are tied to VAS2Nets Telecommunications Limited, which holds a Tier 5 MVNO licence from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

That licence took effect in March 2024, and the brand-licensing agreement between Lebara and VAS2Nets was announced in May of the same year.

Lebara later unveiled its 0724 number series and held a soft launch in Lagos in February 2026 before rolling out nationwide.

The operator competes in a sector already occupied by MTN Nigeria, Airtel Africa's Nigerian business, Globacom and 9mobile. MTN, Airtel, other telcos issue new notices