ALTON Defends Telecom Readiness for E-Transmission of Results

The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), represented by Chairman Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, has refuted the Nigerian Senate's assertions that the country's telecom network is unprepared for the electronic transmission of election results. Adebayo emphasized that the claims of inadequate infrastructure are misleading and based on outdated information.

He pointed out that approximately 70% of Nigeria currently has 3G and 4G coverage, while 11% has access to 5G, and even 2G networks are sufficient for transmitting results electronically. Adebayo criticized the Senate for relying on "half-truths" regarding telecom infrastructure and urged lawmakers to trust verified regulatory data.

He acknowledged challenges in specific areas, particularly in two states affected by insurgency, but maintained that collaboration is essential to address these issues rather than dismissing electronic transmission entirely. ALTON's stance aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has previously dismissed concerns about network challenges affecting the upload of results to the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IREV).