MTN Group, one of Africa’s largest mobile network operators, has agreed to acquire the remaining shares of IHS Towers that it does not already own, in a landmark transaction valued at about $6.2 billion. The deal would give MTN full control of IHS and take the company private, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.
Under the terms of the agreement, IHS shareholders will receive $8.50 per share in cash — roughly a 239 % premium to the price when the company began its strategic review in 2024. Both the IHS board and major shareholders, including Wendel, have voiced support for the transaction, which is expected to close in 2026 if all conditions are met.
The acquisition marks a strategic shift for MTN, reversing the trend of divesting tower assets and reintegrating critical infrastructure under direct ownership. By bringing nearly 29 000 telecom towers fully into its portfolio, MTN aims to cut long-term costs, unlock value, and strengthen its network backbone across key African markets.
The deal is expected to reshape Africa’s telecom infrastructure landscape, offering MTN greater operational flexibility and bolstering its role in future 5G, fibre and connectivity expansion. news
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