Network expansion hits 70% as telcos deploys additional 8,526 sites – NCC
Omeiza Bilal
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that network operators have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 additional coverage and capacity sites intended to improve network coverage, capacity and quality of service across the country.
The Commission said the figure represents about 70 per cent of operators’ commitments and marks significant progress from the approximately 5,000 sites reported at the previous NCC Governing Board meeting.
It made the disclosure in a communiqué issued by the Office of the Commission’s Secretary at the end of the Board’s 110th meeting, held on September 9, 2026.
Despite the programme, the Board raised concerns about a sharp rise in network disruptions recorded in June, attributing some incidents to fibre cuts.
It emphasised that the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure must be matched by stronger protection of critical communications facilities, and called for sustained investment in network resilience and service reliability.
The Board also reviewed the NCC’s technology-driven efforts to strengthen digital trust and security, noting that the Device Management System (DMS) is now live.
“The DMS will improve compliance with type-approval requirements, help prevent the circulation of non-compliant devices and support efforts to combat mobile device theft by enabling reported stolen phones to be blocked across Nigerian networks,” the board said.
It further disclosed that the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) is scheduled to go live in October 2026.
The system is expected to strengthen the governance of telecommunications identities, including mobile numbers, while reducing risks associated with their misuse, reassignment and recycling.
The Board stressed that the deployment of both systems must comply with applicable legal, privacy and data protection requirements while protecting consumers and safeguarding the integrity of the telecommunications market.
The Board reviewed progress on the planned zero-rating of educational platforms and content aimed at improving digital inclusion and expanding access to learning resources.
It commended the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders for their collaboration, noting that the initiative was scheduled for an official launch on September 10, with the go-live date set for October 1, 2026.
