MTN Group has entered into a strategic partnership with Meta aimed at enhancing the quality and reliability of real-time voice and video calls on platforms such as WhatsApp across 12 of its markets, beginning with Nigeria. The initiative seeks to improve the interaction between mobile networks and applications through a model of application-aware networks and network-aware applications.
This collaboration marks a notable evolution in the dynamic between telecom operators and Over-the-Top (OTT) service providers in Africa. For years, telecom companies have voiced concerns over the impact of OTT platforms such as Meta’s WhatsApp and Messenger on their traditional voice call revenue, as subscribers increasingly opt for internet-based communication.
MTN revealed that the partnership was first initiated during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024. Since then, technical teams from both companies have worked closely, employing advanced data analytics and conducting extensive testing to pinpoint areas for enhancement. The results, according to MTN, are already yielding measurable improvements in both call performance and overall network efficiency.
“We’re pleased with the remarkable improvement in our real-time communication services, reflecting our commitment to innovative customer solutions,” said Yahaya Ibrahim, Chief Technical Officer at MTN Nigeria, commenting on the partnership’s early impact.
Meta’s Head of Network Ecosystems Engineering, Diego Marí, reinforced this optimism, stating: “The collaboration allows us to deploy advanced solutions for an unparalleled real-time experience in Nigeria and showcases our dedication to elevating service quality and improving user experience, while striving for continued efficiency in traffic delivery.”
Following the initial rollout in Nigeria, the broader initiative will expand to 11 additional MTN markets over the coming months. Both MTN and Meta have committed to scaling the project further to drive long-term improvements in connectivity and service delivery across the continent. The move aligns with MTN’s overarching mission to spearhead digital solutions that foster Africa’s development.
Historically, telecom operators in Nigeria and other African countries had raised concerns over the financial implications of OTT platforms, as consumers moved away from traditional voice calls. However, the surge in data usage in recent years has seen a shift in revenue streams, with data income increasingly outpacing that of voice services.
For MTN Nigeria in particular, this shift has become apparent, with data revenue now surpassing voice revenue as subscribers consume more internet services. The collaboration with Meta is expected to further reinforce this upward trend in data-driven growth, turning what was once seen as a challenge into a strategic advantage.