NCC Board Highlights Telecom Infrastructure Expansion, Consumer Compensation, Fibre Growth

The Governing Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that mobile network operators (MNOs) are deploying more than 12,000 additional coverage and capacity sites across the country as part of efforts to improve network quality and customer experience. 

The disclosure was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Commission’s 109th Board Meeting held on May 25, 2026.

According to the Board, over 5,000 of the planned sites have already been completed, representing more than 40 per cent progress. It also noted that fibre connectivity has been extended to over 700 sites, while infrastructure-sharing companies have upgraded equipment at more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and compliance with quality-of-service standards.

The Board reviewed the implementation of its directive requiring mobile network operators to compensate subscribers affected by poor service quality. It noted that more than 75 million subscribers had received compensation following full compliance by operators, while the Commission continues to independently verify claims to ensure all eligible consumers are adequately compensated.

However, the Board expressed concern over the partial compliance of co-location and infrastructure-sharing licensees, commonly known as TowerCos, with directives requiring them to reinvest regulatory fines into infrastructure improvements through escrow-funded projects.

On broadband development, the Board observed significant growth in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) adoption, with subscriber numbers rising from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 by the fifth quarter of the same year. It noted that wider deployment of fixed broadband infrastructure would reduce pressure on mobile networks, improve service quality and lower connectivity costs over time.

The Board also reaffirmed its support for ongoing reviews of the telecommunications market structure to ensure that regulatory measures align with current market realities, particularly regarding wholesale and retail service segments.

Addressing challenges facing the sector, the Board highlighted the continued threat posed by vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure. While acknowledging efforts by the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps following the designation of telecom assets as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), it called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders and indicated that the Commission is exploring the establishment of a Communications Industry Security Trust Fund.

The Board further reviewed efforts to develop a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content, an initiative aimed at promoting digital inclusion, bridging the urban-rural digital divide and enhancing educational outcomes nationwide.

In addition, the Board approved the appointment of Princess Oforitsenere Emiko, a Non-Executive Commissioner of the NCC, as Interim Chairman of the Governing Board of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI). It also approved the appointment of Engr. Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, and Ms. Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, as interim members of the DBI Governing Board.

The Board reiterated the Commission’s commitment to promoting a sustainable, inclusive and resilient communications sector that supports Nigeria’s digital economy and the Federal Government’s goal of building a $1 trillion economy.