Telecoms giant, MTN Nigeria Plc on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, broke another record as it became the first in this part of the world to launch its e-SIM services on its network

The e-sim which does not require sim card, but a virtual one with more security is to improve customer experience and maintain the highest quality of service for its customers.

The biggest network provider in Nigeria revealed during the virtual launching in Lagos followed approvals from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The Chief Operating Officer, MTN Nigeria, Mazen Mroue, said that the company was really in a hurry to get through the trial process so that the technology could be deployed for the benefit of every Nigerian. He said that the evolution of e-SIMs (Subscriber Identity Modules cards) was designed to deliver unprecedented freedom and flexibility.

According to Mroue, ‘’Unlike the physical SIMs, e-SIMs are built into smartphones, devices and wearables. They support multiple profiles and allow customers to connect multiple numbers to their e-SIM devices.

“Notwithstanding the sophistication of e-SIMs, the onboarding requirements are the same, as are required for a physical SIM. Hence, SIM registration, in line with existing regulatory prescriptions, remains a requirement for activating a device embedded with an e-SIM,” he said.

The MTN chief also said that the e-sims were particularly useful for people who wanted to manage personal and business lines easily and effectively while noting that the new technology would also be extremely convenient for frequent travellers and tourists, making it easier for them to opt for and keep a local subscription when visiting Nigeria.

He revealed that the trial for the service would run for one year and on a first come first serve basis to a limited number of subscribers.

Going further, Mroue said MTN is at the forefront of e-SIM adoption in Nigeria as part of efforts to help drive the digital economy.

He then informed the subscribers that’s its easy and quick to set up an e-SIM profile with a new and existing mobile plan for those who own e-SIM compatible devices.

He advised the subscribers to visit an MTN service centre where frontline staff will help in registration and onboarding at no cost as e-SIM users will also be able to link multiple compatible devices and smart wearables such as tablets, smartwatches and others to their profile.

Benefits of eSIM

• e-SIMs allow you have more than one phone number associated to your smart device. They particularly useful for people who want to manage personal and business lines.
• The possibility of losing or damaging your SIM is reduced because it is built into your device.
• You no longer have to deal with cutting SIM cards or finding adapters.
• It is extremely convenient for frequent travelers, making it easier to switch between network operators.

How to activate an eSIM

The eSIM trial will run for one year and is open on a first come first served basis to a limited number of subscribers who own compatible devices.

You’ll need to visit any of our MTN stores. Our customer care agents will check your device for eligibility and walk you through the setup process. Need help finding a store? Go to our Stores Page to find the store nearest you.

Compatible Devices

Brand Compatible Phones

GooglePixel 3, 3 XLPixel 4, 4

XLAppleiPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro

MaxiPhone XS, XS MaxiPhone

XRSamsung ,Samsung S20 Series