MTN Nigeria has confirmed that Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) firm Visafone, acquired by the mobile operator in December 2015, is test running 4G LTE internet technology service.

When MTN acquired Visafone, it confirmed it did so to leverage spectrum and licenses to deliver 4G LTE services.

In a statement, MTN said with the roll-out of the 4G LTE services, Visafone would be able to provide superior high-speed internet services in major cities.

MTN executive Amina Oyagbola said "Our recent license acquisition further demonstrates our faith in the future of Nigeria. We believe in supporting the positive transformation of Nigeria and we have demonstrated this belief through the level of our investment since 2001, which currently stands at approximately $16 billion."

MTN Nigeria's General Manager for Consumer Marketing, Richard Iweanoge, said the test-run and subsequent launch of the 4G LTE technology are aimed at providing Nigerians with the best, fastest and most competitive ICT services.

Iweanoge added that while the service was being tested, 4G LTE would be available exclusively to Visafone customers and delivered through Visafone's 800 MHz band.

"When we roll-out fully, especially with our 2.6 GHz spectrum, the launch will help to enhance customer experience for our over 60 million subscribers, while ensuring greater coverage, access, affordability and ultimately a smart lifestyle for everyone," he said.

Visafone was launched in August 2007 and in the same year acquired Cellcom, a registered CDMA operator. In 2008, Visafone also acquired Bourdex Telecom, which at the time, was active in ten southeastern states providing telecoms services.