The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says over 75 million telecom subscribers have been compensated for poor quality of service, as part of efforts to improve consumer protection and service delivery in the country.

This was disclosed in a communiqué issued at the end of the Commission’s 109th Board meeting held on 25 May 2026.

The Commission said it reviewed the implementation of its directive mandating Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to compensate subscribers in areas where service standards were not met.

It noted that the directive had recorded significant compliance, resulting in compensation for millions of affected users.

“The Board noted substantial progress in the implementation of the Commission’s directive, particularly the full compliance of which has resulted in compensation being offered to over 75 million affected subscribers,” the communiqué stated.

Network expansion

The NCC also highlighted ongoing investments by telecom operators to improve network coverage and capacity across the country.

According to the Commission, operators are planning to deploy over 12,000 additional network sites, with more than 5,000 already completed, representing over 40 per cent progress.

It added that fibre connectivity has been extended to over 700 locations, a move expected to enhance network resilience, increase backhaul capacity and improve service reliability.

Infrastructure-sharing licensees have also deployed equipment across more than 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and ensure compliance with Quality of Service (QoS) obligations.

Concerns over infrastructure compliance

Despite the progress, the Commission expressed concern over partial compliance by tower companies (TowerCos) with directives requiring the reinvestment of regulatory fines into infrastructure upgrades.

The Board stressed the need for full compliance to ensure that infrastructure improvements are realised sustainably.

Rising data demand

The NCC noted that data consumption continues to grow in Nigeria but is constrained by infrastructure limitations, including heavy reliance on mobile internet and duplication of assets.

It, however, reported an increase in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections, which rose from 84,141 subscribers in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 in the first quarter of 2026.

Other resolutions

The Commission reiterated the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to protect telecommunications infrastructure, following its designation as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII).

It also disclosed ongoing efforts to develop a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content to promote digital inclusion and improve access to learning.

In addition, the Board approved measures to reposition the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), including new appointments aimed at strengthening governance and enhancing its role in Nigeria’s digital economy.

The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to improving quality of service, strengthening consumer protection, and promoting a sustainable and inclusive telecommunications sector.