The Nigerian Communications Commission has revealed that telecommunications operators in the country invested over N2.5 trillion in network infrastructure in 2025 despite growing complaints from consumers over poor service delivery nationwide.
According to the NCC, Mobile Network Operators accounted for over N2.13 trillion of the total, while Tower Companies contributed an additional N373.8 billion to support expansion and modernisation efforts. The investments supported the addition and upgrade of more than 2,800 telecommunications sites nationwide.
The commission, in a statement signed by Head of Public Affairs Nnenna Ukoha, said the sector was undergoing one of its most extensive modernisation cycles in recent years following a prolonged period of underinvestment. It acknowledged public frustration over dropped calls, slow data speeds, unstable internet connections, and recurring service disruptions.
Investment has continued into 2026, with industry players committing to adding and upgrading more than 12,000 telecom sites during the year. Close to 3,000 sites have already been delivered, and over 730 additional 5G sites have been deployed across 27 states.
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The NCC said 4G penetration rose from 45% in January 2024 to 54% currently, while national median download speeds improved from 16.5Mbps to 20Mbps over the same period. Power availability at telecom towers also improved from 99.3% in January 2025 to 99.7%.
The regulator began enforcement actions against operators failing to meet service quality standards in November 2025 under its updated Quality of Service Regulations. Enforcement measures include consumer compensation obligations and additional investment requirements for Tower Companies where failures are identified.
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The NCC also reported that more than 27,000 fibre-cut incidents were recorded in 2025, largely linked to road construction and vandalism.
The commission said it was working with the Office of the National Security Adviser to tackle organised equipment theft and engaging federal and state works ministries to reduce infrastructure damage from road projects.
Nigeria’s telecom sector serves as a critical backbone for financial transactions, education, and business operations, making sustained investment and regulatory oversight central to the country’s broader digital economy agenda.
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