MTN Group has called for satellite connectivity providers and traditional mobile network operators to face consistent regulatory requirements when offering comparable services, as the expansion of satellite technology reshapes competition in the telecommunications sector.
Ralph Mupita, group president and chief executive officer of MTN Group, advocated a “same service, same rules” framework during a meeting with MTN Media Innovation fellows in Lagos on Wednesday, October 28.
The proposed framework would cover regulatory obligations relating to data privacy, data handling, taxation, regulatory fees and lawful interception, according to the position outlined by Mupita.
The call comes as low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite networks expand their role in providing internet access to areas where conventional telecommunications infrastructure is limited or costly to deploy.
Providers such as Starlink and Eutelsat OneWeb are increasing the options available for delivering connectivity beyond traditional mobile networks.
Mupita said satellite technology could complement terrestrial infrastructure, noting that MTN already uses LEO satellite technology for backup transmission, particularly in rural areas.
The expansion of satellite services is also creating new competitive and regulatory questions for the telecommunications industry.
Direct-to-device technology, which enables compatible mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, could extend satellite services beyond fixed internet access and into parts of the conventional mobile market.
For Nigeria and other African markets, satellite-mobile partnerships could help extend coverage to underserved communities and strengthen network resilience.