Telecom operators cover 70 percent of capacity sites- NCC

Paulette Orjime, Abuja

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said the mobile network operators have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 committed coverage and capacity sites across the country.

The commission announced this in a communiqué issued at the end of its 110th Board meeting held on September 9, and endorsed by the Office of the Commission Secretary.

NCC said the 8,526 sites represent approximately 70 percent of a clear dedication by the network operators.

The Board noted that the figure shows an increase in progress compared to the approximately 5,000 sites reported at its previous meeting.

Nevertheless, NCC raised concern over the impact of fibre cuts on network disruptions, pointing out that the incidents contributed to a sharp rise in service outage in June this year.

The Board emphasized the need to pair infrastructure expansion with stronger protection for critical communications, improving network resilience and service reliability.

The Board acknowledged an update on the technology platform deployed to strengthen trust, security, and integrity in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

The Board noted that the newly launched Device Management System (DMS) strengthens compliance with type-approval standards.

The Board also noted that the system aims to enhance device compliance verification, curb the circulation of unauthorized devices, and mitigate mobile theft by enabling the nationwide blocking of stolen phones.

According to the commission, the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) and its accompanying business rules are set to launch in October 2026.

This solution will strengthen the management of mobile identities and reduce the operational and security risks associated with phone number recycling and unauthorized use.

The Board emphasized that platform deployment will prioritize consumer protection, lawful digital services, market integrity, and full regulatory compliance.

On education, the Board reviewed updates on management’s discussions with tech and telecom stakeholders. They are working together to launch free-data educational platforms and content across Nigeria

Highlighting a joint effort to boost student learning, the Board stated that the initiative aims to promote digital inclusion and improve access to academic resources.

The Board commended the crucial support and cooperation of the Federal Ministry of Education alongside other key partners.

The Board said the initiative is scheduled for a formal launch on September 10, 2026, with full implementation tracking close behind on October 1, 2026. To ensure long-term viability, the Board promised strict oversight of the rollout.

In the same vein, the Governing Board of NCC reviewed a new strategy aimed at restructuring the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) to ensure its long-term survival and industry relevance.

Two independent consultancies will support the phased implementation of the proposed repositioning.

The Board stated that the first consultancy will audit DBI’s internal structure, staff capacity, and market position, while the second will analyze the commercial and legal feasibility of the restructuring plan.

The Board expressed deep concern over the comeback of call masking, warning that the practice could compromise security and disrupt the orderly growth of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Calling the practice an act of economic sabotage, the Board reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on call masking, warning that it hurts sector revenues, disrupts legal telecom services, and threatens the wider national economy.”

The Board renewed the Commission’s commitment to stamp out call masking by partnering closely with law enforcement, security forces, and industry stakeholders

The Board said the Commission is committed to promoting transparency in its operations and pursuing regulatory actions that support network resilience, digital trust, inclusive connectivity, consumer protection, fair competition, and the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.