NCC Unveils Massive Telecom Expansion as Operators Deploy 12,000 New Network Sites Nationwide

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a major nationwide telecommunications expansion programme, revealing that mobile network operators are deploying more than 12,000 additional network sites to improve service quality, expand coverage and strengthen digital connectivity across the country.

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

According to the NCC, over 5,000 of the planned network sites have already been completed, representing more than 40 per cent of the overall rollout target. The Commission said the ongoing infrastructure deployment is expected to address persistent network challenges, improve call quality and enhance internet access for millions of subscribers.

As part of efforts to boost network reliability and transmission capacity, operators have also extended fibre connectivity to more than 700 locations nationwide.

The Board further disclosed that infrastructure-sharing companies have upgraded equipment across over 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), a move aimed at improving network performance and ensuring compliance with quality-of-service standards.

In a significant consumer protection intervention, the NCC revealed that more than 75 million telecom subscribers affected by poor network quality have received compensation following regulatory directives issued to operators.

The Commission said it is independently verifying compliance reports submitted by network providers to ensure that all eligible subscribers receive the required compensation.

While commending progress made in network expansion, the Board expressed concern over the partial compliance of some tower infrastructure companies with directives requiring regulatory fines to be reinvested in infrastructure upgrades.

It urged the affected companies to fully comply with the directive to support sustainable improvements in service delivery and network performance.

The Board also highlighted the rapid growth of Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) services, noting that subscriptions rose from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 connections during the review period.

According to the Commission, the increasing adoption of FTTH services reflects growing demand for high-speed broadband connectivity and underscores the importance of expanding fibre infrastructure nationwide.

The NCC noted that wider fibre deployment would help reduce pressure on mobile networks, lower connectivity costs, improve service quality and accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

On the security of telecom infrastructure, the Commission reiterated the need for stronger protection of telecommunications assets against vandalism and sabotage.

The Board acknowledged ongoing collaboration with security agencies following the designation of telecommunications facilities as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and pledged to intensify efforts to safeguard network installations across the country.

The Commission also reviewed ongoing consultations on the proposed zero-rating of educational platforms and digital learning content, a policy initiative aimed at promoting digital inclusion and improving access to educational resources, particularly for underserved communities.

In a move to strengthen governance at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), the Board approved the appointment of Princess Oforitsenere Emiko as Interim Chairman of the Institute’s Governing Board. It also approved the appointments of Engr. Abraham Oshadami and Ms. Rimini Makama as interim board members.

Reaffirming its commitment to the telecommunications sector, the NCC said it would continue to prioritize service quality, network resilience, consumer protection, fair competition and policies that support the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.