NCC: Telecom operators deploy 8,526 new sites to boost network coverage

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that mobile network operators (MNOs) have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 additional network coverage and capacity sites committed across the country, representing approximately 70 per cent implementation.

The Commission made this known in a communiqué issued at the end of its 110th Board Meeting held on September 9, 2026, as it reviewed developments in the telecommunications sector and progress on strategic initiatives aimed at improving service delivery.

The deployment marks a significant increase from the approximately 5,000 sites reported at the previous board meeting, reflecting intensified efforts by operators to address coverage gaps, expand network capacity and improve subscribers’ quality of experience.

However, the NCC Board expressed concern over a sharp rise in network disruptions recorded in June, with fibre cuts identified as one of the contributing factors.

The Board stressed that the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure must be accompanied by stronger protection of critical communications infrastructure to ensure network resilience and service reliability.

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The Board also reviewed the Commission’s deployment of technology platforms designed to strengthen security, trust and regulatory compliance within the telecommunications ecosystem.

It disclosed that the Device Management System (DMS) is now live, providing a technology-driven mechanism for enforcing compliance with type-approval requirements.

According to the NCC, the system will enhance the verification of device compliance, discourage the circulation of non-compliant devices and support efforts to combat mobile device theft by facilitating the blocking of reported stolen devices across Nigerian networks.

The Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS), alongside its associated business rules, is scheduled to go live in October 2026.

The system is expected to strengthen the governance of telecommunications identities, including mobile numbers, while mitigating risks linked to the misuse, reassignment and recycling of telephone numbers.

The Board noted that the increasing connection of telephone numbers to financial, social and other digital services makes effective identity management essential to protecting consumers and maintaining digital trust.

It, however, emphasised that the implementation of both regulatory technology platforms must comply with applicable legal, privacy and data protection requirements.

The Board further reviewed progress on a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content in Nigeria, aimed at promoting digital inclusion and improving students’ access to learning resources.

It commended the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders for their collaboration, noting that the initiative was officially launched on September 10, 2026, with the go-live date scheduled for October 1, 2026.

The Commission also considered proposals for the strategic repositioning of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), including the development of a roadmap to enhance its relevance and long-term sustainability.

Meanwhile, the NCC reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on call masking, describing the practice as a serious threat to the integrity and security of the telecommunications industry.

The Board said call masking undermines legitimate operations, distorts industry revenues and constitutes economic sabotage capable of harming the national economy.

It reaffirmed its resolve to collaborate with security agencies, law-enforcement authorities and industry stakeholders to identify, prevent and eliminate call masking activities.

The Commission said it would continue pursuing regulatory measures to promote network resilience, consumer protection, fair competition, inclusive connectivity and sustainable growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.