Executive Vice Chairman.of NCC, Aminu Maida
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reported that its shift to market-based pricing in the telecommunications sector has triggered over $1 billion in infrastructure investments in 2025.
During a media briefing in Lagos on Friday, NCC’s Executive Vice-Chairman, Aminu Maida, revealed that the pricing policy, implemented in January and February 2025, permitted mobile network operators to increase tariffs by up to 50% after years of fixed pricing.
“This policy change has unlocked significant investments. We’re finalizing exact figures, but we’re looking at over $1 billion in 2025 alone,” Maida stated.
He noted that the reform boosted investor confidence, reversing a period of limited investment that had hindered network expansion and service quality enhancements.
Maida explained that the previous pricing structure created an imbalance, as tower companies could adjust rates annually for inflation and currency fluctuations, while mobile operators were restricted, deterring new investments.
“The telecom sector demands ongoing investment. Without the right environment, Nigeria risks falling behind globally,” he emphasized.
The NCC reverted to the principles of the 2000 Telecom Policy and 2003 Communications Act, allowing market-driven pricing while ensuring competition to safeguard consumers.
Maida revealed that new equipment orders began arriving in June, with network upgrades and expansions already in progress.
“We monitor progress weekly, tracking site deployments and addressing operator challenges with authorities,” he said.
These investments are expected to resolve capacity issues, enhance service quality, and keep Nigeria competitive in the global telecom market.
Maida also highlighted the industry’s operational challenges, including the consumption of over 40 million liters of imported diesel monthly to power base stations and the reliance on foreign exchange for imported network equipment and software.
“No major telecom equipment is produced locally. Everything, from hardware to software, is imported, requiring foreign currency,” he noted.
To protect telecom infrastructure, the NCC is collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser to create a rapid-response framework tailored to regional challenges. Coastal areas may need community engagement, while high-risk zones require stronger security measures.
Maida stressed that the strategy extends beyond enforcement, addressing vulnerabilities like inadequate site security, generator theft, and local disputes. (NAN)
