NCC seeks greater infrastructure investment in Nigeria at digital connectivity forum

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is urging both public and private investors to increase their investment in telecommunications infrastructure in Nigeria, according to a recent digital connectivity forum. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, made this appeal during the launch of the first-ever Nigeria Digital Connectivity Investment Forum, held in Abuja in collaboration with Swedfund and Ookla.

The forum aims to bring together regulators, investors, infrastructure providers, and development partners to discuss the investment needed to expand connectivity, identify obstacles to infrastructure deployment, and explore partnerships that can accelerate digital transformation and economic growth. Maida emphasized that Nigeria's telecommunications industry has seen remarkable growth over the past two and a half decades, largely due to sound policies, transparent regulations, and investor confidence.

The liberalization of the sector and the introduction of transparent licensing processes have spurred private sector participation, leading to significant advancements in connectivity and communication services nationwide. He underscored that the rising demand for reliable digital connectivity is fueled by increased reliance on broadband-enabled technologies by individuals, businesses, educational institutions, and public services.

Data consumption in Nigeria has surged by nearly 47% within a year, growing from approximately 1.13 million terabytes in July 2025 to about 1.66 million terabytes in July 2026. To meet this growing demand, substantial investments in network expansion, modernization, and service quality improvements are necessary. The NCC has already taken several steps to address these needs, including approving telecommunications tariff adjustments to support operators' capacity for network investment and service enhancement, engaging with state governments on Right of Way issues, and designating telecommunications infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure.

These initiatives aim to reduce barriers to network deployment and bolster investor confidence in the sector. Maida highlighted the NCC's commitment to evidence-based regulation, which will improve transparency, enhance regulatory certainty, and provide clearer insights into investment opportunities within the telecommunications sector.

He also invited local and international investors, development finance institutions, infrastructure providers, and industry stakeholders to collaborate in expanding digital connectivity across Nigeria. By advancing investments effectively, the industry can deliver better opportunities for Nigerians, improve access to essential services, and foster a stronger digital economy that supports sustainable national development.

Maida appreciated the strategic partnership between Swedfund, Ookla, and the NCC, praising their contributions to data-driven decision-making and a deeper understanding of connectivity realities in Nigeria. The partnership provides independent insights into consumer connectivity experiences, supports the Commission's efforts to identify service gaps, monitor network performance, and pinpoint areas requiring additional investment.

The NCC's Consumer Data Lab, funded by the Gates Foundation and developed with Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), integrates Ookla's network performance data, consumer complaints, and operators' intervention reports into a single dashboard. This tool enables a more detailed analysis of connectivity issues based on location and demographic characteristics, helping investors and regulators make informed decisions supported by evidence.