The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that mobile network operators have completed about 70 per cent of their commitment to expand telecommunications infrastructure across Nigeria.
The commission disclosed this in a communiqué issued after its 110th Board Meeting held on September 9, 2026, and signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha.
According to the communiqué, operators have so far deployed 8,526 out of the 12,179 coverage and capacity sites they promised to build nationwide. The Board noted that this marks significant progress from the approximately 5,000 sites reported at its previous meeting.
Despite the improvement, the Board expressed concern over the increase in network disruptions caused by fibre cuts in June. It stressed that expanding infrastructure must go hand in hand with stronger protection of critical communications facilities to improve network reliability.
The Board also received updates on new technology platforms designed to improve security and trust in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
It noted that the Device Management System (DMS) is now operational and will help the commission verify approved devices, discourage the use of non-compliant phones and block reported stolen mobile devices across all Nigerian networks.
The Board further disclosed that the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) is scheduled to become operational in October 2026. The platform is expected to strengthen the management of mobile identities and reduce the risks linked to the misuse, reassignment or recycling of mobile numbers used for financial and other digital services.
The Board reaffirmed that the deployment of both systems would protect consumers, support lawful digital services and comply with existing legal, privacy and data protection requirements.
On digital education, the Board reviewed efforts to introduce zero-rated educational platforms and content across the country. It said the initiative is designed to improve digital inclusion by giving students easier access to educational resources.
The Board commended the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders for supporting the project. It added that the initiative would be officially launched on September 10, 2026, while full implementation is expected to begin on October 1, 2026.
The meeting also considered plans to reposition the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI). It approved a phased strategy that includes two separate consultancy assignments to review the institute’s structure, operations, human resources and legal and commercial viability.
The Board also expressed concern over the resurgence of call masking in the telecommunications industry, describing the practice as a major threat to the sector.
It stated that “call masking remains an unacceptable practice and a serious regulatory concern.”
The Board added that “call masking undermines legitimate telecommunications operations, distorts industry revenues and constitutes an act of economic sabotage capable of adversely impacting the national economy.”
It reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to work with security agencies and industry stakeholders to identify, prevent and eliminate call masking activities.
The Board concluded by assuring stakeholders that the NCC would continue to promote transparency and implement regulatory measures that strengthen network resilience, digital trust, consumer protection, fair competition and the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
