By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has outlined a series of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening telecommunications infrastructure, improving service quality, expanding broadband connectivity and supporting Nigeria’s digital economy.
The resolutions emerged from the 109th meeting of the Commission’s Governing Board held on May 25, 2026, where key regulatory, operational and industry development issues were reviewed.
According to the communiqué issued after the meeting, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have committed to deploying more than 12,000 additional coverage and capacity sites across the country to improve network performance and customer experience. The Commission disclosed that over 5,000 of the planned sites have already been completed, representing more than 40 per cent progress.
The Board also noted improvements in transmission infrastructure, with fibre connectivity extended to over 700 sites nationwide. Infrastructure-sharing companies have equally upgraded equipment across more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and improve compliance with quality-of-service standards.
On consumer protection, the NCC revealed that more than 75 million subscribers have received compensation following the Commission’s directive requiring operators to address poor service experiences in areas where prescribed standards were not met. The Commission said efforts are ongoing to independently verify operators’ compliance and ensure all eligible customers receive the required compensation.
The Board further reviewed compliance by telecommunications infrastructure providers regarding directives to reinvest regulatory fines into network upgrades. While some progress has been recorded, the Commission stressed the need for full compliance to ensure sustainable infrastructure improvements.
Addressing Nigeria’s growing demand for internet services, the Board noted that fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) subscriptions increased significantly from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 connections by the end of the review period. The Commission described the trend as a positive step toward reducing pressure on mobile networks and improving broadband service delivery.
The NCC also disclosed that it is reviewing the structure of the telecommunications market to align regulation with evolving industry realities, particularly within the wholesale and retail segments. Expanded access to backbone fibre infrastructure is expected to improve connectivity, lower costs and boost service reliability.
The Board reaffirmed that continued investment in fibre infrastructure remains critical to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda and achieving the Federal Government’s target of building a one-trillion-dollar economy.
The Commission also expressed concern over persistent incidents of telecommunications infrastructure vandalism, which continue to disrupt service delivery and hinder sector growth. It called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and pledged to accelerate measures aimed at protecting critical communications infrastructure.
In the education sector, the Board reviewed ongoing consultations on a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and digital learning content. The initiative is expected to improve access to educational resources, promote digital inclusion and bridge connectivity gaps between urban and rural communities.
The Board also approved interim appointments to the Governing Board of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) as part of efforts to strengthen governance and reposition the institution for a more active role in Nigeria’s digital development agenda.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to improving service quality, strengthening network resilience, protecting consumers, promoting fair competition and supporting sustainable growth within Nigeria’s communications sector.
