The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), an initiative aimed at improving internet access across the country.
With Nigeria’s broadband penetration currently at 44%, the government is pushing to raise it to 70% by 2025, while also increasing investments in broadband infrastructure by up to 500% by 2027. This initiative is expected to improve connectivity in key sectors, including education, healthcare, religious institutions, and markets. The NCC has selected eight states—Edo, Ogun, Kwara, Katsina, Imo, Abia, Borno, and Nasarawa—for the pilot phase, with plans to expand coverage nationwide.
At the launch event in Lagos, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida, representing Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and the Digital Economy, noted the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals. He emphasized that achieving these objectives requires a holistic approach, including strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other key stakeholders to accelerate the rollout of critical infrastructure.
Regarding the NCC’s recent approval of a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators, provided they improve service quality within three months of implementation, operators still face challenges such as multiple taxation, vandalism of infrastructure, and security issues. Gbenga Adebayo, president of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria, stated that tariff increases alone do not resolve the fundamental issues affecting the sector. He explained that while the increase would help operators recover some revenue losses, it does not fully address the broader challenges.
In another development, the NCC has approved a network-sharing agreement between MTN Nigeria and 9mobile. Under this arrangement, 9mobile will utilize MTN’s nationwide infrastructure to enhance its coverage, allowing its subscribers to access calls, messages, and data services in previously unreachable areas. For MTN, the agreement offers financial benefits and additional spectrum access, particularly in the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz frequency bands.
Despite these initiatives, Nigeria still lags behind regional peers like South Africa and Egypt in broadband penetration. As of January 2025, South Africa reported 74.7% penetration, while Egypt stood at 72.2%. Additionally, Nigeria’s 4G coverage remains at 47%, and 5G adoption is still low at just 2.4%, two years after its rollout.
To accelerate progress, the NBAN initiative aims to simplify regulatory processes, incentivize private-sector investment, and promote broadband adoption nationwide. If successfully implemented, these measures could significantly boost Nigeria’s digital economy.
