By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced significant progress in expanding telecommunications infrastructure across the country, revealing that mobile network operators are deploying more than 12,000 additional network sites to improve service quality and coverage nationwide.
The disclosure was contained in a communiqué issued after the Commission’s 109th Board Meeting held on May 25, 2026.
According to the NCC, over 5,000 of the planned network sites have already been completed, representing more than 40 percent of the total rollout target. The Commission said operators have also extended fibre connectivity to more than 700 locations to strengthen network reliability, improve transmission capacity and enhance customer experience.
The Board noted that infrastructure-sharing companies have upgraded equipment across over 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and improve compliance with quality-of-service standards.
On consumer protection, the Commission disclosed that more than 75 million subscribers affected by poor network quality have received compensation following a regulatory directive issued to mobile network operators. The NCC said it is independently verifying operators’ claims to ensure all eligible subscribers benefit from the compensation programme.
The Board, however, expressed concern over the partial compliance of tower infrastructure companies with directives requiring regulatory fines to be reinvested in network infrastructure upgrades. It urged full compliance to guarantee sustainable improvements in service delivery.
The Commission also highlighted the growing adoption of Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) services. According to the report, FTTH subscriptions increased from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 connections by the end of the review period, reflecting increased demand for fixed broadband services.
The Board observed that expanding fibre infrastructure remains critical to reducing pressure on mobile networks, lowering connectivity costs, improving service quality and supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation goals.
Addressing security concerns, the NCC reiterated the need for stronger protection of telecommunications infrastructure against vandalism. The Board acknowledged ongoing efforts by security agencies following the designation of telecom facilities as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and pledged to accelerate initiatives aimed at safeguarding network assets.
The Board also reviewed ongoing consultations on the proposed zero-rating of educational platforms and content, an initiative designed to promote digital inclusion, improve access to learning resources and bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities.
In a move to strengthen governance at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), the Board approved the appointment of Princess Oforitsenere Emiko as Interim Chairman of the Institute’s Governing Board. It also approved the appointments of Engr. Abraham Oshadami and Ms. Rimini Makama as interim board members.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to improving quality of service, strengthening network resilience, protecting consumers, promoting fair competition and supporting Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.
