Nigeria: NCC Targets 50% Improvement in Telecom Services by End of 2024

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set an ambitious goal to achieve a 50% improvement in the quality of telecommunications services by the end of this year. This initiative aligns with the priorities outlined by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Reuben Mouka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, detailed the Commission’s initiatives under the first year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Among these initiatives, enhancing service quality is a key target, reflecting the government’s focus on leveraging technology for economic growth.

Dr. Tijani’s Agenda 2023 outlines several key targets beyond the improvement of service quality. These include:

• Increasing Nigeria’s broadband penetration to 70% by the end of 2025.
• Achieving data download speeds of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas by 2025.
• Extending coverage to at least 80% of the population by 2026.
• Reducing the number of unconnected Nigerians in rural areas from 61% to less than 20% by 2027.
• Securing a 300% to 500% increase in broadband investment by the end of 2027.

Under the leadership of Dr. Aminu Maida, the NCC has adopted a detailed approach to data collection and analysis, focusing on local-level quality of service rather than broad national metrics. This method allows for targeted solutions and regulatory actions to enhance consumer experiences. Dr. Maida emphasizes the importance of consumer satisfaction throughout their entire journey, from selecting a network to receiving customer support.

To address common consumer complaints, particularly regarding data depletion, the NCC has mandated Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct independent audits of their billing systems. The Commission is also working on simplifying tariff plans to increase transparency for consumers.

On the industry side, the NCC is striving to build a resilient telecommunications sector. Efforts include critical advocacy for recognizing telecom infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure and successfully negotiating Right of Way (RoW) fee waivers in multiple states. Additionally, the Commission is engaged in addressing multiple taxation issues through the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

The NCC is also reviewing its regulatory frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements, such as incorporating Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 5G in its Quality of Service Regulations. These measures are designed to ensure high-speed internet connectivity and robust regulatory oversight.

Through these initiatives, the NCC is actively contributing to the Ministry’s vision of boosting economic growth and productivity via technological innovation. This comprehensive strategy aims to fulfill the promise of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning Nigeria’s telecom sector as a catalyst for national development.