Nigeria’s telecommunications industry is set for another wave of major investment in 2026, with operators planning to inject more than $1 billion into network infrastructure, following similar spending in 2025. The announcement comes as data consumption surges and demand for reliable broadband and 5G services grows across urban and rural areas.
In 2025, operators deployed over 2,850 new network sites nationwide, enhancing coverage along major transport corridors and boosting connectivity in underserved communities. The rollout also supported the expansion of fifth-generation (5G) networks, signalling Nigeria’s readiness for next-generation digital services.
Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), said the sector’s strong performance last year was a direct result of sustained capital investment. “Industry investment of over $1 billion in 2025 supported the deployment of more than 2,850 new sites to expand coverage and capacity nationwide,” he explained. “Operators have now committed to exceed these levels in 2026, reflecting confidence in Nigeria’s telecommunications growth potential.”
Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the increase comes amid rising operating costs, heightened demand for data, and the imperative to expand reliable connectivity beyond major cities. To support infrastructure investment, the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy approved a 50 per cent adjustment in service tariffs in 2025, improving cash flow and allowing operators to finance network upgrades.
The NCC’s fourth-quarter 2025 performance report highlighted gains in median download speeds across both urban and rural locations, narrowing quality gaps in video streaming and strengthening 4G networks. Independent data from Ookla further confirmed that higher investment translated into tangible service improvements.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain. The commission identified gaps in 5G availability, inconsistencies in upload speeds, and areas with limited mobile coverage. To bridge these, the NCC said operators’ 2026 spending would focus on expanding 5G, improving network reliability, and ensuring more consistent service across the country.
Maida emphasised the importance of data-driven regulation, noting that continuous monitoring of network performance will guide spectrum management, infrastructure deployment, and rural connectivity initiatives. The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with industry stakeholders to ensure that investment leads to measurable improvements for subscribers.
As Nigeria’s telecom operators prepare to surpass the $1 billion mark in 2026, the sector is poised to strengthen its position as a key enabler of digital transformation, providing faster, more reliable, and inclusive connectivity nationwide.
