By peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has projected a significant increase in investments in the telecommunications sector this year, following recent reforms and tariff adjustments aimed at restoring profitability for operators.
Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, who made this known during an interactive session with journalists at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, said the telecom industry is rebounding as a major contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), after grappling with foreign exchange challenges over the past two years.
Represented by the Acting Head of Public Affairs, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Dr. Maida stated that the sector had shown resilience, noting that the financial losses recorded by key operators in previous years due to forex-related obligations were now being reversed.
“About two years ago, some of our major operators were experiencing huge losses despite growing revenues. Their profitability was eroded by rising forex obligations, which in turn impacted service quality,” he said. “However, with the recent tariff adjustment, operators are regaining profitability and reinvesting in their networks.”
Dr. Maida added that improved investments would lead to better service delivery and a more positive experience for consumers.
Despite the recovery, he acknowledged that the sector still faces significant challenges, including Right of Way (RoW) bottlenecks, fibre cuts, vandalism, and energy-related issues. He revealed that between May 21 and 31, 2025, the industry recorded nearly 147 cases of fibre cuts, disrupting operations in affected areas.
To tackle these issues, the NCC is partnering with key institutions. A Memorandum of Understanding is expected to be signed with the Federal Ministry of Works to mitigate fibre cuts caused by road construction. The Commission is also engaging the Nigerian Governors’ Forum on the RoW issue.
In response to infrastructure vandalism, the NCC plans to name and shame culprits and work with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to prosecute offenders.
“Telecommunication infrastructure is critical to national security, economic growth, and public welfare,” Dr. Maida stressed. “A stable and efficient telecom system supports every sector and ensures the delivery of essential services to Nigerians.”
He called on the media to support the Commission’s efforts to raise awareness and foster public-private collaboration, assuring that all regulatory decisions would adhere to global best practices and serve the interests of both the nation and telecom consumers.
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