Nigerian Telecom Operators Face Financial Strain as Operating Costs Hit Record N5.8 Trillion

The Nigerian telecom industry is grappling with significant financial challenges, with total operating costs reaching a record N5.85 trillion in 2024, primarily attributed to high ROW fees. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reports that these fees, coupled with inflation, foreign exchange pressures, and rising energy costs, are straining operators' balance sheets.

The high fees are hindering infrastructure rollout, jeopardizing the country's broadband penetration targets. The NCC boss, Maida, highlighted the escalating domestic capital expenditure in 2024.

ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, emphasized the need to address challenges hindering broadband deployment.