Why we expanded distribution network to 4000 retail shops — Airtel

Airtel Nigeria says it has expanded and strengthened its nationwide retail and distribution network to improve customer access to telecommunications services and deepen digital inclusion across the country. The telecommunications company said the move forms part of its continued investment in enhancing service delivery by bringing its products and services closer to millions of Nigerians. […]

Airtel Nigeria says it has expanded and strengthened its nationwide retail and distribution network to improve customer access to telecommunications services and deepen digital inclusion across the country.
The telecommunications company said the move forms part of its continued investment in enhancing service delivery by bringing its products and services closer to millions of Nigerians.
According to the company, its retail ecosystem now comprises more than 4,000 exclusive Airtel shops and over 200,000 retail touchpoints nationwide, including partner stores, channel partners and neighbourhood agents.
Through the network, subscribers can conveniently access SIM registration services, purchase mobile devices, recharge airtime and data, receive customer support and enjoy other digital services.
Speaking on the company’s retail distribution strategy, the Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, said the expansion reflects the company’s commitment to reaching customers wherever they live and work.
“Telecommunications goes beyond the physical infrastructure; it is important that we are able to reach people where they live and work. That is why we continue to invest in a strong retail and distribution ecosystem that enables us to bring Airtel closer to our customers while delivering a consistent, high-quality experience wherever they are,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director of Sales and Distribution at Airtel Nigeria, Joypratip Sengupta, described the distribution network as a key component of the company’s customer service strategy.
“Our retail network is designed to ensure that our services reach customers efficiently. It is a combination of efficient logistics systems, strong partnerships and local engagement that enables us to consistently meet the needs of our customers across the country,” Sengupta said.
Airtel noted that the strengthened distribution strategy complements its ongoing investments in network infrastructure and digital innovation, adding that proximity to customers remains critical to delivering quality service and promoting digital inclusion.

Beyond improving access to telecommunications services, the company said its growing retail ecosystem continues to support job creation and entrepreneurship by providing business opportunities for thousands of distributors, retailers, neighbourhood agents and other small business owners across Nigeria.

The company added that the expanded network reinforces its commitment to connecting more Nigerians while supporting economic growth through an inclusive distribution model.