Rumors have been circulating that 9Mobile is shutting down, but the company insists this is false. The speculation arose as frustrated subscribers reported poor service and difficulties switching to other networks, leading many to assume the worst.
9Mobile acknowledges ongoing challenges, particularly with Mobile Number Portability (MNP), the service that allows users to switch networks seamlessly. However, they maintain that they have not blocked anyone from leaving and are not going out of business. The company attributes these issues to technical glitches, describing them as “temporary challenges.”
According to 9Mobile, most of these problems have already been resolved, though some customers may still experience minor delays as they optimize their systems. They also admit to network disruptions in various parts of the country but claim these are part of a larger effort to upgrade infrastructure and enhance service quality. The company is urging customers to remain patient as improvements continue.
9Mobile’s struggles are not new. Over the years, the telecom provider has lost millions of subscribers due to poor network quality and financial difficulties. At its peak in 2016, the company boasted over 22 million subscribers, but as of January 2025, that number has plummeted to just 3.2 million—a staggering decline.
In an attempt to revive the brand, LH Telecommunication Limited acquired 9Mobile last year, injecting fresh capital and appointing a new board. However, customers are still waiting to see tangible improvements.
In January 2025, 9Mobile unveiled a major comeback strategy, pledging a $3 billion investment to expand its 2G, 3G, and 4G coverage while reducing costs by sharing infrastructure rather than building from scratch. However, securing such a large sum remains a challenge, especially given Nigeria’s high-interest rates. Whether this strategy will succeed remains to be seen.
CEO Obafemi Banigbe has also cautioned that the entire telecom industry is grappling with rising costs, making profitability even more challenging. While 9Mobile is striving for a major comeback in 2025, its success remains uncertain.