The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the entry of Lebara Nigeria into the country’s telecommunications market, describing it as a strategic move to accelerate growth in the creative, cultural and tourism sectors.
Speaking at the soft launch of the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in Lagos, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the development highlights the growing importance of digital infrastructure in expanding opportunities within Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
According to Musawa, the launch represents more than the debut of a new telecoms brand. She said it demonstrates how public-private partnerships can unlock economic value across arts, culture and tourism.
The minister disclosed that her ministry is already engaging Lebara under an existing framework designed to deploy technology in empowering creatives, expanding market access and stimulating sustainable economic activity.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to repositioning the creative economy as a major driver of national growth, employment and global competitiveness through collaboration with credible private sector players.
The event, attended by regulators, diplomats and industry leaders, was held in partnership with the UK Department for Business and Trade and the British High Commission.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, described Lebara’s entry as evidence of strengthening UK–Nigeria cooperation in the digital economy.
Baxter noted that Nigeria’s MVNO licensing framework—driven by reforms from the Nigerian Communications Commission—has lowered barriers to entry and fostered innovation. He added that affordable and reliable connectivity now serves as critical infrastructure for inclusive economic growth.
Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria, Gbenga Adebayo, welcomed the development, saying MVNOs have the potential to deepen telecom access and drive inclusion, particularly in underserved communities.
Chief Executive Officer of Lebara Nigeria, Teniola Stuffman, revealed that the company’s launch followed two years of groundwork. She said the operator will prioritise affordability, transparency and superior customer experience, working in partnership with Airtel Nigeria.
Financial institutions, including Zenith Bank, also signalled readiness to back credible telecom investments, reflecting growing investor confidence in the sector.
Stakeholders said Lebara’s market entry underscores the convergence of regulatory reform, private capital and government policy reinforcing the role of digital connectivity in advancing Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
