75m telecom subscribers compensated as NCC ramps up network expansion
The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has disclosed that over 75 million telecom subscribers have been compensated for poor quality of service, as it intensifies regulatory measures to improve service delivery across the country.
This came as the Commission revealed that more than 5,000 new network sites have so far been deployed by operators, representing over 40 per cent of planned expansion efforts.
The disclosure was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the NCC’s 109th Board meeting held on May 25, 2026.
According to the telecom regulator, Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, are currently undertaking significant investments aimed at boosting network coverage, capacity and overall Quality of Experience for consumers, with over 12,000 additional sites planned nationwide.
The Commission further noted that fibre connectivity has been extended to over 700 locations, a development expected to enhance network resilience, improve backhaul capacity and ensure better service reliability.
It added that infrastructure-sharing licensees had also deployed new equipment across more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations, BTS, to support operators’ expansion drive and meet Quality of Service, QoS, obligations.
On consumer protection, NCC said it reviewed the implementation of its directive mandating operators to compensate subscribers affected by poor service, noting substantial progress in compliance.
However, the Commission expressed concern over partial compliance by tower companies, TowerCos, with directives requiring the reinvestment of regulatory fines into infrastructure upgrades, stressing the need for full adherence.
The Board also examined rising data consumption trends in the country, pointing out that infrastructure deficits, heavy reliance on mobile internet and duplication of assets continue to limit growth and impact service quality.
Despite these challenges, the Commission reported a surge in Fibre-to-the-Home, FTTH, connections, which increased from 84,141 subscribers in Q4 2025 to 210,065 in Q1 2026, reflecting growing adoption of fixed broadband services.
On infrastructure security, NCC reiterated the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard telecom assets, especially following their designation as Critical National Information Infrastructure, CNII.
It also disclosed ongoing efforts to develop a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content, aimed at promoting digital inclusion and bridging the urban-rural divide.
Meanwhile, the Board approved steps to reposition the Digital Bridge Institute, DBI, including fresh appointments to strengthen governance and enhance its contribution to Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring improved Quality of Service, enhanced consumer protection, transparency, and a more inclusive and sustainable telecommunications sector.
