Imose Mobile begins network testing, signals entry into Nigeria’s telecom market

Nigeria’s telecom landscape is set for a new shake-up as Imose Mobile, an indigenous operator, moves from planning to real-world network testing, edging closer to a full commercial launch.

Imose Mobile, an indigenous Nigerian mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), has commenced pre-commercial testing of its mobile network, marking a critical first step toward full-scale commercial operations in the country.

The testing phase is designed to rigorously assess network performance, validate service quality, and fine-tune the end-to-end customer experience before services are rolled out nationwide. It represents the company’s transition from development to live operational conditions as it prepares to enter Nigeria’s highly competitive telecom market.

The MVNO is deploying its services in collaboration with Airtel Nigeria, one of the country’s leading telecommunications providers, leveraging its established infrastructure to deliver broad coverage and high-speed connectivity across key markets.

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As part of its operational structure, Imose Mobile will operate within the 071803 number range, which has been assigned to support its identity during the testing phase and eventual commercial rollout.

Industry analysts say the emergence of indigenous MVNOs could deepen competition in Nigeria’s telecom sector, expand consumer choice, and strengthen local participation in a market driven by growing demand for affordable data and voice services.

Commenting on the milestone, Michael Nene, marketing manager at Imose Mobile, said that the testing phase places the company directly in the field, where real network performance will define its success.

“Today marks a defining moment for Imose Mobile and for Nigerian telecommunications,” Nene said. “Pre-commercial testing puts us in direct contact with the realities of our network and that is exactly where we want to be. We are not building a product in a boardroom; we are building it in the field, for Nigerians, with Nigerian ambitions at the centre of every decision. Our partnership with Airtel Nigeria gives us a robust foundation, and we are confident that what we are building will set a new standard for what consumers can expect from a mobile operator.”

Imose Mobile said further announcements on its commercial launch timeline, service offerings, and nationwide rollout strategy will be released in the coming weeks as the testing phase progresses.