By Adria Calatayud

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. said Wednesday that third-quarter profit after tax fell slightly despite higher revenue and that its operating environment remains challenging due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Nigerian telecommunications company--part of South Africa-based MTN Group Ltd.--made a profit after tax for the quarter of 49.36 billion Nigerian naira ($129.5 million), down 0.7% on year.

MTN Nigeria's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for the quarter rose 11% to NGN170.80 billion.

Revenue for the quarter was up 17% at NGN337.69 billion.

MTN Nigeria added 3.9 million subscribers during the quarter, bringing its total to 75 million.

The company said it will build on momentum from the third quarter in the final quarter of the year to expand its 4G coverage and broaden rural connectivity, which will help to boost subscriber numbers and support growth in voice and data revenue.

Write to Adria Calatayud at adria.calatayud@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

10-28-20 0611ET