The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, says mobile network operators will deploy over 12,000 new coverage and capacity sites nationwide, with more than 5,000 already completed, to improve service quality and expand infrastructure.
This was contained in a communiqué issued after the NCC’s 109th Board Meeting held on May 25, 2026, where the Governing Board reviewed sector developments and outlined regulatory priorities.
The commission said operators have also extended fibre connectivity to more than 700 sites, while colocation and infrastructure-sharing companies have upgraded equipment at over 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations, BTS, to strengthen network resilience and quality of service.
It noted that the ongoing expansion reflects the industry’s commitment to improving coverage, capacity, and customer experience nationwide.
–75m subscribers compensated–
In a major consumer protection move, the NCC revealed that more than 75 million subscribers have been compensated following its directive requiring operators to provide redress for poor quality of service in areas where standards were not met.
The commission described operators’ compliance level as substantial, adding that it is independently validating claims to ensure all eligible subscribers receive due compensation.
However, the NCC expressed concern over partial compliance by Tower Companies, TowerCos, with directives to reinvest regulatory fines into infrastructure upgrades through escrow accounts. It stressed that full compliance is needed for sustainable network improvements.
–Fibre growth, security challenges–
The commission also reviewed data consumption trends and noted that rising demand for broadband continues to pressure existing infrastructure.
Fibre-to-the-Home, FTTH, subscriptions rose from 84,141 in Q4 2025 to 210,065 by the end of the following quarter, reflecting growing adoption of fixed broadband.
The NCC said expanding fibre infrastructure remains critical to reducing pressure on mobile networks, lowering connectivity costs, and improving service quality.
The commission also raised concerns over persistent vandalism of telecom infrastructure despite its designation as Critical National Information Infrastructure, CNII. To address this, it said it is exploring a Communications Industry Security Trust Fund and stronger stakeholder collaboration.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive communications sector that supports Nigeria’s digital transformation and the federal government’s $1 trillion economy goal.
