Nigeria: NCC says telecoms sector deploys 2,850 new sites as investments hit $1bn

Nigeria’s telecommunications sector recorded notable improvements in network performance in the fourth quarter of 2025, supported by over $1 billion in industry investment and the deployment of more than 2,850 new network sites, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The findings are contained in the NCC’s Q4 2025 Network Performance Reports, released following an extensive assessment of service quality nationwide. Speaking at a media engagement on the report, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said the exercise reflects the Commission’s commitment to transparent, evidence-based regulation and continuous improvement of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

The reports, developed in collaboration with global network intelligence firm Ookla, provide independent analysis of real-world network performance and user experience across urban centres, rural communities, highways, and emerging 5G coverage areas.

“Through our collaboration with Ookla, we are providing independent insights into real-world network performance and the lived experience of Nigerians,” Maida said, noting that the data helps the regulator better understand how networks perform in everyday use.

Network quality improves, urban–rural gap narrows

According to the data, median download speeds improved consistently across both urban and rural locations compared with Q3 2025. The report also shows a narrowing of the video Quality of Experience gap between urban and rural areas, alongside continued strengthening of the country’s 4G network backbone.

Maida explained that the reports enable the NCC to monitor progress, identify performance gaps, and design targeted regulatory interventions. These include spectrum optimisation, infrastructure upgrades, stricter quality-of-service enforcement, and accelerated expansion of rural connectivity.

5G availability and upload speeds remain challenges

Despite the gains, the Commission acknowledged that challenges persist. The Q4 2025 report highlights gaps in 5G availability, disparities in upload speeds, and lingering coverage deficiencies in some parts of the country.

According to Maida, the NCC is engaging operators to address these shortcomings, with regulatory actions increasingly guided by insights drawn directly from performance data.

Industry investment tops $1bn

The EVC revealed that industry-wide investment exceeded $1 billion in 2025, driving the rollout of more than 2,850 new network sites and significantly expanding national coverage and capacity. He attributed much of the improvement in Q4 performance metrics to these infrastructure investments.

Looking ahead, the NCC said it has secured commitments from operators to surpass their 2025 investment levels in 2026, signalling continued expansion and upgrades across Nigeria’s telecoms landscape.

“We look forward to continued collaboration with industry stakeholders as we translate these insights into better connectivity, improved service quality, and a more inclusive digital future for all Nigerians,” Maida said.