An independent analysis has praised the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for significantly advancing Nigeria’s digital economy and supporting the National Broadband Plan’s ambitious target of 70% internet penetration by 2025.
The study, “Regulating for the Future: Telecom Policy, Innovation, and Nigeria’s Digital Inclusion Goals”, conducted by Communiqué, reviewed the NCC’s regulatory actions over the past two years. According to David Adeleke, Communiqué’s CEO, the report demonstrates the critical role of the telecom sector in powering the nation’s digital ambitions.
“Telecoms already contribute more than 16% to Nigeria’s GDP. With these reforms, we expect this to grow to 22% by 2027. The NCC’s policies are central to achieving this target,” Adeleke said.
Among the report’s findings:
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Resilient Networks: Policies such as mandatory disaster recovery and designation of telecom systems as Critical National Information Infrastructure have strengthened network reliability.
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Consumer-Centric Measures: Guidelines on tariffs and rights are improving transparency and protecting users from unfair charges.
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Enhanced Service Standards: Stricter performance benchmarks are holding operators accountable for call quality, data speeds, and complaint handling.
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Investment and Growth: The first tariff review in over ten years has triggered billions in new investment, accelerating 4G, 5G, and fiber network expansion.
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Encouraging Innovation: Faster device approvals are reducing gray-market products and supporting local tech development.
The report also notes ongoing challenges, including vandalism, fiber cuts, uneven rural coverage, and high upgrade costs for smaller operators. Recommendations include improved enforcement, inter-agency collaboration, incentives for local manufacturing, and targeted outreach to underserved areas.
The study underscores the NCC’s pivotal role in transforming Nigeria into a digitally inclusive nation and advancing a knowledge-driven economy.
