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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has renewed its call for stronger synergy between the Federal Government and state governments to fast-track broadband expansion, eliminate Right of Way (RoW) barriers, and protect critical telecom infrastructure across the country.
Speaking at the Business Roundtable Forum with States, held at the NCC Digital Economy Complex, Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, underscored the need for policy alignment at all levels of government to drive investment, digital inclusion, and national competitiveness.
“In earlier eras, a community without a railway or electricity could still subsist. In today’s world, a community without digital connectivity is invisible — cut off from education, markets, healthcare, and opportunity,” Maida said. “We must act decisively, state by state, community by community, to ensure no one is left behind.”
Themed “Right of Way and Protection of Broadband Infrastructure – The Road to Success in Broadband Investment and Connectivity,” the event brought together state representatives, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to deliberate on harmonizing frameworks for nationwide broadband growth.
Broadband as a Catalyst for Economic Growth
Dr. Maida reiterated the critical role of broadband in national development, noting that a 10% increase in broadband penetration can contribute up to 1.38% GDP growth in developing economies.
With Nigeria’s broadband penetration currently at 48.81% as of August 2025, he emphasized that achieving the 70% target set in the National Broadband Plan could significantly boost productivity, innovation, and job creation.
Citing examples from Rwanda and India, he noted that strategic investments in broadband and digital governance have transformed their economies. “With over 200 million people and a median age of 18, Nigeria can surpass these benchmarks — but only if we provide our youth with reliable, affordable, high-speed connectivity,” he stated.
Policy Reforms and Infrastructure Protection
Highlighting progress under the Tinubu administration and the supervision of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Maida revealed key policy milestones aimed at strengthening the telecom ecosystem.
He noted that the signing of the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Presidential Order in June 2024provided the much-needed legal framework for securing telecom assets.
To operationalize the Order, the NCC, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), established a Telecom Industry Working Group. Enforcement and public awareness initiatives have since led to the dismantling of major syndicates involved in telecom equipment theft.
On RoW harmonization, Dr. Maida disclosed that 11 states have completely waived charges, while 17 states have adopted the ₦145 per meter benchmark recommended by the Nigerian Governors Forum.
“Policy consistency makes a difference. States that have waived RoW fees and prioritized infrastructure protection are already witnessing increased network expansion and investor confidence,” he noted.
Driving New Investments and Innovation
Dr. Maida announced that telecom operators have collectively committed over $1 billion in new broadband rollout investments to extend coverage across Nigeria.
He also unveiled two key NCC initiatives to enhance efficiency and transparency:
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Ease of Doing Business Portal: A centralized digital platform to streamline engagement with all 36 states and the FCT.
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Nigeria Digital Connectivity Index (NDCI): An annual scorecard designed to assess and publish the digital readiness and competitiveness of each state.
Tackling Persistent Challenges
Despite recent achievements, Maida acknowledged the persistent challenges facing broadband infrastructure, including fibre cuts, vandalism, multiple taxation, and inconsistent RoW policies.
Between January and August 2025, the NCC recorded 19,384 fibre cuts, 3,241 equipment thefts, and over 19,000 site access denials nationwide.
He urged state governments to adopt unified, investment-friendly policies and reinforce security partnerships to sustain digital growth.
“Pipelines of oil are giving way to pipelines of fibre,” Maida concluded. “The prosperity of our states will depend on how fast we build, protect, and connect our digital networks.”
About the Forum
The Business Roundtable Forum was convened by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to foster dialogue between federal and subnational authorities on promoting broadband investment and ensuring the protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) as a foundation for Nigeria’s digital future.
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