The Nation Newspaper

Tag: NCC

  • NCC, NDPC sign MoU on protection and privacy of citizens’ data in telecom sector

    NCC, NDPC sign MoU on protection and privacy of citizens’ data in telecom sector

    The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NDPC, on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the protection of citizens’ data in the telecommunications industry.

    The MoU was signed at the headquarters of the NCC by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Wada Maida, and the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji.

    Speaking at the event, Dr Olatunji stressed the significance of data safety, data security, and governance in the present digital age, saying the collaboration between the NDPC and NCC was aimed at adding value to the services rendered by both institutions.

    He said the partnership would strengthen their commitment towards delivering efficient and effective services to Nigerians, as data protection has become a cornerstone of digital governance worldwide.

    Olatunji noted that the telecommunications sector, which is one of the largest ICT sectors with significant contributions to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), became the first point of call for the NDPC for collaboration and positive engagements for the good of the country.

    “In Nigeria, the rapid expansion of telecommunications and digital services has created both opportunities and risks.

    “The NCC, as the regulator of telecoms, and the NDPC, as the authority on data protection, share overlapping responsibilities in ensuring that citizens’ personal information is secure.

    “To avoid potential conflicts in the mandates of the two Commissions as enshrined in their respective Acts, and pursuant to their statutory responsibilities, both NCC and NDPC recognize the importance of streamlining the regulatory process to avoid overlaps in their respective mandates and ensure clarity in the regulation of data in the communications sector,” Dr Olatunji said.

    He said the MoU on data protection was necessary to strengthen consumer privacy, align regulatory mandates, and safeguard Nigeria’s digital economy, particularly in the telecommunications sector.

    In his remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, expressed delight over the collaboration, saying that the MoU between the two agencies would provide a structured framework for collaboration.

    Dr Maida, who highlighted the steps taken by the leadership of the NCC to ensure regulatory compliance by stakeholders in the telecommunications sector, described the MoU as a significant step that would strengthen collaboration between the two institutions.

    The EVC urged Nigerians to know their data rights in order to guard against exploitation, emphasising that data protection was key to the future and sovereignty of Nigeria.

    “This is why data protection is very, very important for the future and sovereignty of this nation.

    “Somebody is monetising your data. But it is going to get to a point where you, too, should also have your rights to either say, yes, you can use it, or no, you cannot use it.

    “You are laying the foundations whereby people have a right to govern their own data. Because in the future, I believe we are going to be moving away from labour unions to data unions.

    He said foundations being laid today would prepare individuals for the future, adding that people need to know that they have data, they need to be aware of the data they are generating, and they need to know their rights around that data.

    “If they do not know it, somebody will monetise it. So when they say you are using the platform for free, it’s not really free,” the EVC said.

  • NCC, NSCDC warn vandals on rising fibre cable cuts

    NCC, NSCDC warn vandals on rising fibre cable cuts

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have warned against fibre-optic cable damage during road construction and related civil works across the country as the rising incidents of avoidable fibre cuts resulting from negligence will no longer be excused, noting that offenders risk prosecution as the act constitutes a crime.

    They warned that any future damage to fibre optic infrastructure caused by excavation, road construction, or any civil engineering activity conducted without due consultation or collaboration with network operators and relevant regulators will attract strict legal consequences.

    NCC and NSCDC stressed that fibre optic cables are critical national assets that power Nigeria’s digital economy, enable seamless communication, support emergency services, connect businesses, and facilitate government operations.

    They said their destruction, whether through negligence, lack of coordination, or wilful actions, poses a direct threat to national security, economic stability, and public safety.

     “Under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunication fibre infrastructure is classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure. Consequently, any damage resulting from unauthorized digging, construction activities, or failure to collaborate with relevant authorities to prevent damage during construction constitutes a criminal offence,” the two organisations said in a joint statement yesterday.

    They warned that individuals, construction companies, or government contractors who damage fibre optic infrastructure would be made to face prosecution and applicable sanctions as provided under existing laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

    Read Also: Temitope Adeoye calls for carbon credit awareness across Nigeria

    The NCC and NSCDC therefore issue a categorical warning that “future damage to fibre optic infrastructure caused by excavation, road construction, or any civil engineering activity conducted without due consultation or collaboration with network operators and relevant regulators will attract strict legal consequences.”

    They called on federal, state and local government agencies; road construction companies; utility service providers; and private developers to ensure full compliance by conducting pre construction verification of fibre routes; collaborating with the NCC, telecom operators and NSCDC before and during construction; adhering to approved guidelines for excavation and right of way management; and reporting any accidental damage immediately to enable rapid response and mitigation.

    The public is encouraged to report any act of fibre-optic infrastructure sabotage or damage to the nearest NSCDC Office or email to protect@ncc.gov.ng, cipu@nscdc.gov.ng or call 622 toll-free.

  • NCC, World Wrapperman advocate inclusive access to copyright works

    NCC, World Wrapperman advocate inclusive access to copyright works

    Last Saturday, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) partnered Copyright Ambassador Mr. Adjarhor David Obaro, popularly known as World Wrapperman, to promote an all-inclusive copyright system that allows persons with cerebral palsy, the blind and others with special needs to access published works. The advocacy took the form of a special run and walk from Freedom Park, Lagos, to the National Stadium last Saturday. The event was organised to draw attention to the challenges faced by persons living with cerebral palsy and other print-disabled persons in accessing knowledge and information.

    The Director-General Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asein in a statement, said the Commission was pleased to identify with World Wrapperman as a committed Copyright Ambassador and to join him in the awareness run. He explained that the exercise was meant to reawaken public consciousness to the need for equal access to knowledge for persons with disabilities.

    According to him, the Copyright Act 2022, in line with Nigeria’s obligations under the Marrakesh Treaty, makes special provision not only for blind and visually impaired persons, but also for other print-disabled persons, including those with cerebral palsy who are unable to read or handle printed materials in the usual way due to physical or neurological conditions.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    Dr. Asein described Freedom Park as a symbolic starting point for the run, noting that the location, once a place of confinement, now represents freedom, creativity and expression.

    “Beginning this journey from Freedom Park underscores our resolve to remove legal, social and structural barriers that restrict access to knowledge and opportunities for persons with disabilities,” he said.

    He added that the exercise aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to unlock the potential of the creative and knowledge sectors for national development.

    The NCC boss called on authors, publishers, educators and stakeholders in the book value chain to adopt inclusive publishing practices by providing copyright works in accessible formats for children and persons with special needs, especially those with cerebral palsy.

    He thanked World Wrapperman, members of the Nigerian Association of the Blind and other participants for supporting the initiative, and urged Nigerians to uphold equity and fairness in the creative and knowledge sectors.

    Speaking after the run, World Wrapperman who is known for running for different causes with a bundle of wrapper explained that his partnership with NCC dates back to 2019 when he ran from Lagos to Onitsha during the Commission’s 30th anniversary celebration.

    “When the cerebral palsy awareness idea came up, I spoke with NCC and they said they would support it because they already run programmes for the blind. That is why the blind community also joined today’s event,” he said.

    He disclosed that the cerebral palsy awareness campaign began on January 1 and would last for 56 days, with January 31 chosen for NCC’s participation.

    On his use of wrappers as part of his identity, he said he had been a cultural ambassador since 1985 and was determined to preserve Nigerian culture.

    “I hold the world record for tying the longest wrapper at 37 yards. This year, I will break my own record by increasing it to 56 yards,” he added.

    Also speaking, the Director of the Lagos Office of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Mrs. Lynda Alphaeus, said the run was organised to create awareness that persons living with cerebral palsy, the blind, the visually impaired and others with special needs are part of society and entitled to information.

    She said copyright works should be produced in accessible formats such as Braille for the blind and audio formats for persons with cerebral palsy who may not be able to read printed texts.

    “There should be no stigma. They are entitled to information and representation. We need an all-inclusive copyright society in Nigeria,” she said.

    A cerebral palsy heroine, Kevwe, joined the exercise with her family and members of the blind community at the National Stadium. Flyers containing information on cerebral palsy awareness were distributed during the event. Her father, Mr. Fidelis Ogwa, commended the organisers and called for increased support for persons living with cerebral palsy.

  • NCC blames absence of roadmap for gaps in spectrum planning

    NCC blames absence of roadmap for gaps in spectrum planning

    Telecom sector regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has identified the absence of a cohesive national spectrum roadmap for existing gaps in spectrum holdings and effective long-term planning which has stunted the industry’s growth.  

    According to a Draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector (2025 – 2030), the regulator noted that since liberalization, Nigeria has allocated approximately 12.5 gigahertz (GHz) of spectrum (across terrestrial and satellite bands), enabling over $75 billion in telecom infrastructure investment.

    “These investments have spurred growth far beyond the sector—supporting financial inclusion, e-commerce, telemedicine, e-government services, and broader digital transformation.

    “Despite these achievements, the absence of a cohesive national Spectrum Roadmap has left gaps in spectrum holdings and effective long-term planning. With digital technologies now central to every sector—agriculture, health, education, manufacturing, logistics, and trade—a forward-looking spectrum management plan is imperative,” the Commission said.

    The Roadmap, it said, is developed to build on the current foundation while charting a course to meet future data and broadband demands in line with Nigeria’s 2030 ambition for universal connectivity, inclusive digital innovation, and a globally competitive digital economy.

    The document envisions that by 2030, spectrum in Nigeria would have enabled universal, high-speed broadband access across urban and rural areas; powered inclusive digital innovation across health, education, agriculture, and commerce; strengthened national security, public safety, and emergency communications; and positioned Nigeria as a top-tier digital economy in Africa and a model for spectrum governance globally.

    Read Also: NCC: impact of spectrum opening coming

    Linking spectrum to broader economic transformation, the document noted that the transformative impact of spectrum extends far beyond telecommunications.

    These past investments—though made without a formal roadmap—have yielded substantial socio-economic returns across multiple sectors.

    With digital infrastructure now deeply embedded in how governments deliver services, how businesses operate and how citizens interact with the economy, the role of spectrum has become foundational to national development.

    The Commission noted that recent estimates put the telecom sector’s total contribution to GDP at over ₦33 trillion, underpinned by rising broadband penetration, expanded network coverage, and increased digital inclusion.

    “But the true impact of spectrum lies in its multiplier effect across the broader economy—enhancing productivity, access, and efficiency in sectors ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to trade, healthcare, and governance,” the Commission said, adding that Nigeria has already seen improved efficiencies in financial inclusion, use of digital technology for voter registrations and others.

    It put infrastructure investment to be over $75billion; internet usage +1,000,000 TB; broadband coverage +80per cent Mobile subscribers +170million; and internet subscribers +200k

    “Furthermore, studies have shown that digitization of other sectors through the use of wireless services will have a similar positive impact on efficiency, effectiveness and reach of public services,” the Commission noted.

  • Nigerians to feel impacts of new spectrums opening before end of 2026, says NCC

    Nigerians to feel impacts of new spectrums opening before end of 2026, says NCC

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has provided further insights on the opening of two spectrum bands to deepen operations in the telecommunications industry and boost the digital economy.

    Speaking with reporters shortly after the conclusion of the two-day Consultative Forum with Stakeholders at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, on the opening of the Spectrum Roadmap 2025 to 2030, the Commission’s Head of Spectrum Administration, Atiku Lawal, said the infrastructure might be delivered before the end of this year.

    He said that with the deployment of the infrastructures, digital communications activities in the industry would take an upward swing with the concomitant improvement in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    He emphasised that the current stakeholders’ engagements are expected to bring about a robust roadmap for seamless experience, delivery of quality services, and expansion of networks through the use of satellite technology, among others.

    Engr Lawal said, “What we are trying to do is to increase the spectrum resource capacities so that more investments and activities will come on board. If we attain high capacity, you have a better experience and better quality of service.

    Read Also: NCC opens spectrum bands to support Tinubu’s 1 trillion dollar economy

    “So we are opening the bands, not only to improve the quality of service but also to allow for innovations as we see. Because it is not only the connection. All of us are making some bank transactions, we are doing some business other than just calling our relatives, I believe.

    “So, to make sure that Nigerians become more productive, do a lot of businesses, innovations, think about health, and others.

    “We have doctors in remote places, and they should actually connect from that village to the National Hospital, if possible in Abuja, to talk to a consultant without that consultant going into those remote villages.

    “However, it cannot happen without the spectrum. So all these are what we are doing here. We come here to make sure we put more spectrum into the telecommunications sector of the industry.”

    He said Nigerians would begin to experience the impacts of the Spectrum bands faster than expected.

    “I cannot give time, but from experience, I can say that before the end of this year, you can see all these services are being used in the country,” he added. 

  • NCC opens spectrum bands to support Tinubu’s 1 trillion dollar economy

    NCC opens spectrum bands to support Tinubu’s 1 trillion dollar economy

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced consultative engagements with critical stakeholders to open up new spectrum bands in support of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a trillion-dollar digital economy.

    The NCC’s engagements/presentations are on the development of the Spectrum Roadmap 2026–2030, the guidelines for opening the lower 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6, and the guidelines for opening the 60 GHz license-exempt band for multi-gigabit wireless systems.

    According to the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Dr Aminu Wada Maida, the demand for spectrum is not only rising in the telecommunications industry, but its availability has also become imperative for Nigeria’s accelerated growth and economic expansion.

    Addressing participants on Monday during the opening ceremony of the Consultative Forum at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, Dr Maida said the Forum would create avenues for robust deliberations that would shape Nigeria’s digital future. Dr Maida was represented by the Head of Spectrum Administration, Engr Atiku Lawal at the event.

    Dr Maida said the frameworks contained in the presentations reflected the commitment of the NCC towards building a communications ecosystem that is inclusive, innovative, resilient, and future-ready.

    He therefore encouraged participants and stakeholders to make critical inputs and contributions that would align with the vision of the present leadership for a robust economy.

    He said, “At the heart of our sector lies an essential national resource: spectrum. Spectrum may be invisible, yet it is indispensable. It powers the connectivity behind our mobile phones, our broadband connections, our satellite services, emergency communications, financial platforms, and smart technologies.

    Read Also: NCC hires PwC to study competition level in telecom sector

    “Behind every video call, every digital transaction, every online classroom, and every connected device in Nigeria, there is a spectrum at work.

    “But the spectrum is also finite. Demand for it is rising rapidly, driven by data-intensive applications, cloud services, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and the expanding digital needs of our economy.

    “These innovations require more spectrum, smarter planning, and more flexible regulatory approaches.”

    The NCC boss said the Spectrum Roadmap 2026 to 2030 was developed to ensure faster speeds, wider coverage, better service quality, stronger innovation, and greater inclusion, assuring that more investments would be attracted to the economy with the development.

    He added that by opening the bands, the NCC was preparing the country “for the data demands of tomorrow—not just on mobile networks, but across homes, campuses, businesses, healthcare facilities, and public spaces.”

    In his keynote address, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, of the NCC, Abraham Oshadami, said the management of spectrum requires transparency, prudence, and collaboration.

    “The way we plan, assign, and regulate spectrum will determine our nation’s ability to achieve our target, stimulate innovation, and strengthen global competitiveness”, Engr Oshadami said.

    Oshadami, who was represented by Engr Maigana Gidado, the Head of Fixed Networks and Converged Services in NCC, noted that Nigeria would continue to make meaningful progress in mobile broadband penetration, 5G rollout, and improvement in quality of service following the new openings and opportunities in the telecommunications ecosystem. 

  • NCC hires PwC to study competition level in telecom sector

    NCC hires PwC to study competition level in telecom sector

    Telecom sector regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday said it has hired a consulting firm, PricewaterHouseCoopers (PwC), to conduct an independent, data-driven study on the level of competition in the nation’s telecom sector.

    This is coming about 13 years after such a study was conducted and subsequent approval of a 50per cent tariff adjustment to mobile network operators (MNOs) by the regulator last year.

    Head, Competition and Tariff at the NCC, Mrs Omotayo Mohammed, in her opening remarks at the Stakeholders’ Forum on the Study on the Level of Competition in the Nigerian Telecom Industry held at Ikeja Sheraton Hotel,  Lagos, yesterday, noted that the telecom market has evolved significantly over the past years.

    According to her, revenue models have shifted, investment patterns have changed, and new forms of market interaction have emerged. “We are witnessing rapid technological change, evolving consumer expectations and usage patterns, rising investment costs, and heightened competitive pressures.

    Concurrently, concerns around barriers to entry, market concentration, sustainability of smaller players, and quality of service continue to warrant careful consideration. These dynamics highlight the importance of continuous validation of competition policy assumptions against current market evidence,” she said.

    She underscored the need for commitment to a sector that has become the backbone of the nation’s digital economy, contributing about 9.1per cent to national GDP as at Q3 2025. “The telecommunications sector serves as a critical enabler of growth, inclusion, innovation and service delivery across all sectors of the economy,” Mrs Mohammed said.

    Read Also: PwC urges review of companies payroll to align with new tax laws

    According to her, competition is the engine that drives innovation, affordability, and consumer choice.

    “But competition must also be fair, effective, and sustainable. Our task as a regulator is to strike the right balance, one that protects consumers, rewards efficiency and investment, and keeps the market open to new ideas and new entrants.

    “The last comprehensive, industry-wide competition study undertaken by the Commission was concluded in 2013. A few targeted, bespoke studies have since been conducted across specific services and market segments such as Mobile Voice Termination Rate 2018 and Mobile Voice International Termination Rate 2022.

    “However, developments in technology, market structure, and consumer behavior now necessitate a holistic reassessment of competition across the telecommunications value chain,” she said.

    She said PwC brings to this assignment deep expertise in competition economics, market assessment, and regulatory advisory with a strong record track record of delivering robust and credible assessments for regulators across multiple jurisdictions. The engagement reflects the Commission’s emphasis on methodological rigour, analytical independence, and alignment with international best practice in competition and economic analysis.

    According to her, the study is not about naming winners or losers. It is about understanding market dynamics as they truly are, across infrastructure, services, pricing, and emerging segments, identifying any structural or behavioural concerns.

    “The Commission remains committed to its responsibility to continuously provide a conducive environment and level playing field for the effective interplay of factors that would engender a sustained market development and growth, while ensuring the provision of qualitative and efficient telecommunication services to the consumers.

    To achieve this, the study has been designed to capture both supply-side and demand-side dimensions of the market. On the supply side, it will assess market structure, levels of concentration, pricing behaviour, access to essential facilities, barriers to entry and expansion, and the intensity of competitive rivalry. On the demand side, it will examine consumer usage patterns, switching behaviour, affordability, service quality, and the extent to which consumers are able to exercise informed choice.

    Mrs Mohammed said the robustness of the study’s outcomes will depend significantly on the quality of the data that underpins the analysis. I therefore wish to emphasize the importance of timely, accurate, and complete submission of information by all service providers and relevant stakeholders when the data-gathering questionnaires are administered.

    Data submission in this context is not a procedural formality. It is a regulatory imperative. Incomplete, inconsistent, or delayed responses constrain analytical reliability and could affect the appropriateness of any regulatory measures that follow.

    She said the study is intended to be diagnostic in nature. It is not designed to pre-judge outcomes or target specific licencees. Rather, it is intended to strengthen regulatory certainty and ensure that competition-related interventions are evidence-led, proportionate, and transparent.

    Also speaking on the occasion, Director, Strategy, PwC Network, Akolawole Odunlami, said the global telecom sector is projected to reach approximately $1.3 trillion by 2028. Post-pandemic, the sector has regained momentum, but growth has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels. Previously, the sector grew at about four per cent year-on-year; today, global growth is between two and three per cent, adding that many challenges affecting the sector are not limited to Nigeria—they are global.

    Odunlami said in sub-Saharan Africa, while the subscriber base continues to grow, most operators are experiencing declining average revenue per user (ARPU).

    “Another significant trend is changing consumer behavior. Today’s consumers are digital-first. They no longer simply purchase connectivity—they seek experiences powered by connectivity.

    “For consumers, it’s not just about buying data; it’s about self-service applications, replacing physical experiences with digital ones. Data is the enabler of these experiences. Similarly, the rapid growth of entertainment and social media positions connectivity as a social access point to the world.

    “Globally, telecommunications operators are rethinking their business models. Success is no longer defined solely by data offerings but by integrating lifestyle services into the data experience. Through platforms, users can now access health services, utilities, and even fintech solutions. Over-the-top (OTT) services—such as WhatsApp and Teams—illustrate how traditional voice and messaging services are shifting, with data serving as the backbone. Revenue is moving from traditional models to OTT services.

    “Consumer communication is now experience-driven. For instance, I can call a team member anywhere in the world using Teams—data enables the experience, not just the call. Globally, some mobile network operators (MNOs) have integrated lifestyle services into their apps, allowing users to pay for utilities, access medical services, and engage with fintech offerings. Today’s 21st-century consumer demands connectivity that powers these experiences,” he said.

    Another trend is the rollout of 5G and, eventually, 6G. By 2028, 5G is projected to account for 64per cent of global connectivity. However, adoption in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa remains constrained due to infrastructure limitations, low investment in R&D, and slow uptake of 5G-enabled devices. Short- to medium-term adoption in sub-Saharan Africa is projected at 14–17per cent, far below the global average. Government investment in infrastructure and R&D is crucial to accelerate this growth.

    Competition in the sector is also evolving. Beyond new entrants, innovative business models and connectivity options are reshaping the market. Globally, for example, AI has driven significant economic growth, with the U.S. seeing 90per cent of first-half 2025 growth attributed to AI investments in hyperscale data centers. In Nigeria, while more data centers are emerging, investment in AI-capable infrastructure remains limited. A conducive regulatory environment is essential to support such advancements.

    The Nigerian telecommunications sector has evolved significantly between 2000 and 2025. Growth was explosive from 2000 to 2005, scaled between 2005 and 2015, and slowed between 2015 and 2023 due to market maturity and economic factors like the MDC rebasing. Sector studies conducted by the NCC have also evolved: the 2015 study focused on industry-wide competition, while more recent studies target specific segments, such as co-location, infrastructure, and voice and data.

    Market dominance can arise from four factors: innovation, investment, go-to-market strategy, or anti-competitive practices. Regulatory focus is on ensuring that leadership gained through anti-competitive practices does not undermine the market. Sustainable market leadership is encouraged when achieved through innovation, superior investment, and effective market strategies.

    “The current study by NCC and PwC is diagnostic and data-driven, aiming to Assess market dynamics, structure, concentration, and operator behavior; Identify significant market power and its impact on competition; and Enhance regulatory oversight and review existing frameworks.

    “Others are promote fair competition and provide evidence-based recommendations to foster innovation and service quality; and develop the capacity of the regulator to continuously assess competition and make informed decisions,” he said.

    He said the scope includes independent, evidence-based assessment of market structure, pricing, entry and expansion barriers, consumer behavior, and service quality. Accurate, timely, and complete data submission from stakeholders is critical. Interviews, both virtual and in-person, will follow initial data collection to ensure comprehensive engagement.

  • Fed Govt eyes satellite-to-mobile services

    Fed Govt eyes satellite-to-mobile services

    The draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector for between 2025 and 2030 lays out how satellite technologies could help deliver reliable voice and data services to millions of Nigerians who live beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.

    The direction is outlined in the Commission’s draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector covering the period stated.

    The proposed approach highlights non-terrestrial networks as a complement to existing mobile infrastructure, especially in areas where terrain, insecurity, or high costs limit the deployment of base stations.

    The NCC said D2D satellite technology, which allows standard mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, is gaining traction globally as a means of delivering voice and data services without reliance on ground towers.

    According to the regulator, the technology could help close persistent coverage gaps in rural, riverine, and border communities that remain outside the reach of conventional networks.

    It also noted that satellite-backed connectivity could improve network reliability by providing alternative links during fibre cuts, power failures, or other disruptions affecting terrestrial systems.

    READ ALSO: Reading Nigeria’s governance signals

    The Commission added that wider adoption of D2D services could support emergency communications, public safety operations, Internet of Things applications, and services such as smart agriculture in underserved regions.

    It also pointed to potential investment opportunities through partnerships between mobile network operators and satellite companies, including more efficient use of shared spectrum resources.

    Beyond D2D services, the roadmap places emphasis on Low-Earth Orbit satellites to expand broadband access to remote parts of the country.

    It also proposes better utilisation of Geostationary Orbit satellites and the exploration of high-altitude platforms, such as stratospheric balloons, to support mobile backhaul and rural connectivity.

    The policy signals come shortly after Airtel Africa announced an agreement with SpaceX to introduce Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services in Nigeria.

    The NCC’s roadmap is expected to shape future spectrum allocation, licensing decisions, and technology adoption across the telecommunications sector.

  • Nigeria’s data usage hit 13.2m terabytes in 2025 — NCC

    Nigeria’s data usage hit 13.2m terabytes in 2025 — NCC

    Nigeria’s data usage reached about 13.2 million terabytes (TB) in 2025, reflecting a 35 per cent surge in internet traffic driven by rising usage across mobile and broadband networks, according to data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

    Figures obtained from the NCC indicate that national internet traffic has maintained a steady upward trend since the Commission began tracking monthly usage in January 2023.

    Total data consumption rose from 7.27 million TB in 2023 to 9.76 million TB in 2024, representing a 34.3 per cent year-on-year increase, across major operators including MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, T2 and other internet service providers.

    Between January and November 2025, Nigerians consumed 11.86 million TB, up from 8.79 million TB in the corresponding period of 2024—an increase of 34.96 per cent, or 3.07 million TB. This places average daily data usage at over 41,000 TB, intensifying pressure on mobile and broadband networks nationwide.

    According to data published on the NCC’s website, national internet traffic across MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, T2 and other providers has risen consistently since 2023.

    “In 2023, Nigeria recorded 7.27 million TB in total data usage. This climbed to 9.76 million TB in 2024, representing a 34.3 per cent year-on-year growth.

    The momentum has intensified in 2025, with full-year consumption now projected to exceed 13.2 million TB, implying growth of about 35 per cent over 2024.

    “Between January and November 2025 alone, Nigerians consumed 11.86 million TB, up from 8.79 million TB in the same period last year—an increase of 34.96 per cent, or 3.07 million TB in additional volume,” the report read.

    At the current pace, Nigeria is consuming just over 41,000 TB of data daily, underscoring growing strain on telecom infrastructure.

    Read Also: NCC expresses regret over poor telephone services in Abuja

    The data also reveal a strong seasonal pattern, with December consistently emerging as the peak month for data consumption. In 2024, December traffic exceeded November levels by 94,502 TB, while the increase stood at 67,794 TB in 2023. Month-on-month growth for December averaged 10 to 11 per cent in both years, largely driven by holiday travel, video streaming, social media activity and online shopping.

    Industry players attribute the sustained growth to cheaper smartphones, wider access to mobile internet, increased video consumption, expanding cloud services, remote-work tools and the ongoing digitalisation of businesses and public services.

    Broadband penetration also crossed the 50 per cent mark in November 2025 for the first time, a significant milestone, although still below the 70 per cent target set under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020–2025.

    Speaking on the report, telecom analyst Osita Odafi said Nigeria’s growing appetite for internet services had pushed national data consumption to 11.86 million TB as of November 30, 2025, placing the country firmly on track to exceed 13 million TB by year-end.

    Odafi said the surge reflects how streaming platforms, cloud computing, fintech services and widespread smartphone adoption are reshaping how Nigerians live and work.

    Analysts increasingly regard data consumption as a proxy for broader economic activity, reflecting how Nigerians communicate, transact, learn and entertain themselves.

    Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, said rapid urbanisation was intensifying demand for data services.

    “Cities like Lagos are growing at lightning speed with more people, more businesses, more devices.

    “We recognise that data is the new oxygen. That is why we are investing heavily in 5G and fibre to build a smart, scalable network that can carry the weight of Nigeria’s digital future,” Balsingh said.

    However, regulators have cautioned that infrastructure strain remains a concern. The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said service quality still requires improvement despite recent progress.

    “Quality of service today is not yet where we want it to be, but it is equally true that we are no longer where we used to be,” Maida said, adding that operators are being compelled to accelerate investment while improving customer experience.

    For telecom operators and internet service providers, the figures present both opportunity and urgency, as sustaining growth will require rapid expansion of network capacity, improved resilience and smarter infrastructure planning.

    Analysts say policy success will depend on faster implementation of the 90,000-kilometre national fibre rollout under Project BRIDGE, resolution of right-of-way challenges, reduction of multiple taxation at sub-national levels and improved security to protect telecom infrastructure from vandalism.

    Odafi noted that if these constraints are addressed, Nigeria’s current data boom may mark not a peak, but the early stage of a much broader digital transformation.

  • NCC marks World Braille Day

    NCC marks World Braille Day

    As Nigeria joins rest of the world to commemorate this year’s World Braille Day, the Director General, Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asein has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to a copyright system that is fair, balanced and humane; one in which authors are protected, rights are respected, and learning materials are accessible to a growing number of blind and print-disabled persons.

    World Braille Day is dedicated to celebrating Braille as one of humanity’s most transformative innovations for literacy, independence, and dignity.

    According to a statement by the commission, Dr. Asein said this year’s focus on inclusion, the bridging of digital divides, and the advancement of accessibility in education resonates deeply with the Commission’s long-standing advocacy.

    He stated that under the banner Let the Blind Read, the commission reaffirms its belief that the copyright system must serve not only creators and markets, but also learners, students, and readers with print disabilities. He emphasised that access to knowledge is a right, not a privilege.

    “Yet, the reality in Nigeria remains deeply troubling. Available studies indicate that less than one per cent of published materials in the country are available in accessible formats such as Braille, audio, or digital text compatible with screen-reading technologies. This acute ‘book famine’ mirrors broader challenges across much of the developing world and exposes the systemic barriers confronting blind and visually impaired persons. The Commission is therefore again drawing attention to the fact that the cost of inaccessibility is not merely social exclusion, but long-term harm to education, employment prospects, and the inclusion of the print disabled in the broader national development agenda,” he said.

    Read Also: I will never give up on Nigeria — Gbenga Hashim declares

    He recalled that for centuries, Braille has enabled blind and visually impaired persons to access knowledge, participate meaningfully in education, and live with dignity. He noted that this year’s focus on inclusion, the bridging of digital divides, and the advancement of accessibility in education resonates deeply with the Commission’s long-standing advocacy.

    “Yet, the reality in Nigeria remains deeply troubling. Available studies indicate that less than one per cent of published materials in the country are available in accessible formats such as Braille, audio, or digital text compatible with screen-reading technologies. This acute “book famine” mirrors broader challenges across much of the developing world and exposes the systemic barriers confronting blind and visually impaired persons. The Commission is therefore again drawing attention to the fact that the cost of inaccessibility is not merely social exclusion, but long-term harm to education, employment prospects, and the inclusion of the print disabled in the broader national development agenda.

    “It is against this backdrop that the Copyright Act, 2022, assumes particular significance. The Act marks a decisive transition from charity-based access to a rights-based framework for inclusion. Through section 26, Nigeria has domesticated the Marrakesh Treaty, expressly permitting the reproduction, distribution, and cross-border exchange of works in accessible formats for persons with print disabilities. Importantly, the Act also establishes safe-harbour protections for Authorised Entities, recognising that access must be enabled lawfully, responsibly, and in a manner that builds trust throughout the book value chain.

    “In furtherance of this statutory mandate, the Commission has issued new Guidelines to strengthen the safe-harbour regime. These guidelines provide much-needed clarity, transparency, and safeguards for the production and dissemination of accessible-format copies. We are confident that they will encourage broader institutional participation, rebuild confidence among rights holders and intermediaries, and substantially increase the availability of books in Braille and other accessible formats. This regulatory effort will be complemented by sustained advocacy, awareness-raising, and capacity-building initiatives targeting publishers, libraries, educational institutions, and other concerned stakeholders.

    “The World Braille Day ultimately reminds us that inclusion is not an act of generosity; it is a legal obligation, a moral imperative, and a development necessity,” Asein added.