By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage– The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that telecommunications operators are deploying more than 12,000 additional network coverage and capacity sites across the country to improve service quality, while over 75 million subscribers have been compensated for poor quality of service.
The disclosure was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 109th meeting of the NCC Governing Board held on May 25, 2026.
According to the commission, mobile network operators (MNOs) have already completed more than 5,000 of the planned sites, representing over 40 per cent of the targeted deployment aimed at enhancing network coverage, capacity and overall quality of experience for consumers. The NCC also noted that fibre connectivity has been extended to more than 700 sites, strengthening network resilience, backhaul capacity and service reliability.
The Board said infrastructure providers had upgraded equipment across more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and improve compliance with quality of service obligations.
On consumer protection, the commission reported significant progress in implementing its directive requiring operators to compensate subscribers affected by poor service quality. It stated that full compliance by operators had resulted in compensation being offered to over 75 million affected subscribers.
The Board, however, noted that some tower companies had only partially complied with a directive requiring them to reinvest regulatory fines into infrastructure upgrades through escrow accounts. It stressed the need for full compliance to ensure sustainable improvements in network performance and service delivery.
The NCC also highlighted growing demand for data services, warning that infrastructure limitations, heavy dependence on mobile internet connectivity and duplication of network assets continue to constrain service quality.
To address the challenge, the commission said Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) subscriptions rose sharply from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 subscribers by the end of the following quarter, reflecting increasing adoption of fixed broadband services.
According to the Board, expanding fibre infrastructure and improving access to wholesale backbone networks would help reduce pressure on mobile networks, lower connectivity costs and create conditions for more affordable retail data services.
The Board reaffirmed that sustained investment in fibre infrastructure aligns with the Federal Government’s digital transformation agenda and its ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.
The commission also expressed concern over the persistent vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure, describing it as a major challenge to industry growth despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to protect critical national information infrastructure.
To strengthen network security, the Board said it would explore the establishment of a Communications Industry Security Trust Fund and intensify collaboration with stakeholders to safeguard telecom facilities nationwide.
As part of efforts to deepen digital inclusion, the Board reviewed ongoing engagements with industry players on a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content. The initiative is expected to improve access to digital learning resources, bridge the urban-rural digital divide and enhance educational outcomes.
The Board further approved interim appointments to the Governing Board of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) following the expiration of the tenure of its chairman and some board members.
Under the new arrangement, Princess Oforitsenere Emiko, a Non-Executive Commissioner of the NCC, was appointed Interim Chairman, while Engr. Abraham Oshadami and Ms. Rimini Makama were appointed interim members of the DBI Governing Board.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by the commission to promote a sustainable and inclusive communications sector, with continued emphasis on quality of service, network resilience, consumer protection, transparency, fair competition and market discipline.
