Investigations have shown that mobile network operators across Nigeria have deployed 8,526 additional network sites as part of efforts to improve network availability and quality of telecommunications services across the country.
The deployment shows thay about 70 per cent of the 12,179 sites operators had committed themselves to providing better and clear signal services, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) regulation and directives.
The latest figure shows a significant boost from the approximately 5,000 sites reported at the Commission’s previous board meeting, which has now showed greater desire for faster progress in the operators’ infrastructure expansion programme.
The development was part of the key points reviewed by the NCC Governing Board during its 110th meeting on September 9, 2026, as part of its assessment of current developments in the Nigerian telecommunications sector.
It was gathered that the expansion of the base stations is aimed at increasing network coverage, improve their capacity and improve the overall user experience of telecom subscribers.
However, the Board observed that infrastructure expansion alone would not guarantee reliable telco services if critical telecommunications infrastructure remained vulnerable to damage or frustrated by either construction rehabilitation or other forms.
Specifically, the Board expressed concern over massive optic fibre cuts, as a major debilitating factor in the industry, noting that it contributed to the increases recorded in network disruptions in June, this year.
The Commission therefore stressed the need for all sectors, especially the security and communities to protect telecommunications infrastructure as operators continue to invest in new sites and expand their networks.
The NCC Board stated that the progress made so far was quite encouraging, but was of a firm opinion that greater attention must be paidl to network resilience and service reliability.
During the .renting, the Board equally linked the infrastructure expansion programme to its wider objective of promoting reliable connectivity and supporting the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
It reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to regulatory measures that improve network resilience, encourage inclusive connectivity, protect consumer rights and support fair competition in the telecoms industry.
