U.K’s Lebara Enters Nigeria Telecom Market With 0724 Number Series

United Kingdom-backed mobile operator, Lebara has formally entered Nigeria’s telecommunications market with the rollout of its 0724 number series, signalling a new phase of competition in the sector.

The company unveiled the number range at a private industry event in Lagos, attended by regulators, investors and representatives of the United Kingdom business community.

The launch positions Lebara as a new player targeting value driven mobile services in one of Africa’s largest telecom markets.

Lebara is operating in Nigeria under a Tier Five Mobile Virtual Network Operator licence issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission. Under this model, the company does not own physical network infrastructure. Instead, it delivers services by leasing capacity from established operators.

As part of its market entry strategy, Lebara has secured an infrastructure partnership with Airtel Nigeria, enabling nationwide service delivery from launch.

The company has also completed full interconnection with other major networks, allowing seamless calls and data usage across Nigeria.

The 0724 number series has been fully activated and integrated into the national numbering plan. This ensures that subscribers can communicate without restrictions across all mobile networks once commercial operations commence.

Lebara said its Nigerian operation will focus on affordable voice and data offerings, with particular attention to international calling services that support Nigerians with family and business ties abroad. The company plans to draw on its experience across Europe and other markets to tailor products to local needs.

Beyond core telecom services, Lebara has indicated plans to expand into digital financial services, including device financing and small value consumer products. It also outlined intentions to support creative and technology communities through connectivity driven initiatives.

Lebara’s entry adds to the evolving structure of Nigeria’s telecom sector, where regulators are encouraging new service models to deepen competition, improve quality of service and expand consumer choice across the country.