Nigerian Telecoms to Invest ₦1.86 Trillion by 2026

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) announced a planned investment of ₦1.86 trillion by 2026 aimed at expanding network infrastructure and upgrading technology to improve service quality across Nigeria. This investment follows a record capital expenditure of ₦2.13 trillion in 2025, reflecting ongoing infrastructure investment despite challenges such as foreign exchange constraints.

The telecom sector has faced increasing consumer complaints regarding service quality, including slow internet speeds and network outages, prompting the Nigerian Communications Commission to order operators to compensate affected subscribers. The approved 50% tariff increase is seen as necessary to support network upgrades and restore financial viability within the industry.

ALTON's investment strategy will focus on network densification, fiber expansion, and modernization to address persistent challenges such as dropped calls and inconsistent data speeds. The investment will increasingly rely on domestic funding sources, as foreign capital inflow into the telecommunications sector has declined.