Telecom Operators Demand New Broadband Policy in Nigeria

Telecom operators in Nigeria are intensifying calls for a new broadband policy framework following the underperformance of the National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025, which fell short of its goal of 70% broadband penetration, achieving only 51.97% by December last year, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) emphasized the need for better alignment of the roadmap to drive the next phase of digital infrastructure expansion.

The NCC has indicated plans to develop a successor to the current broadband plan, focusing on lessons learned from the 2020-2025 cycle. The telecom sector has faced challenges, including inconsistent state-level approval processes and high deployment costs, which have hindered infrastructure rollout.

Despite ongoing efforts to deploy 7,000 telecom towers to enhance network reach in underserved areas, stakeholders argue that isolated projects will not suffice without a coordinated national structure. The high cost of smartphones has also been identified as a barrier to broadband access.