Nigeria Plans Telecom Policy Overhaul

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Lagos began reviewing its 26-year-old national telecommunications policy, proposing fifteen changes to address current challenges. Nigeria recorded 19,384 fibre-optic cable cuts in 2025, causing frequent outages and unstable connectivity across the country. The proposed policy aims to lower data costs, improve network reliability, and protect subscribers from online fraud.

Reforms include restructuring governance, strengthening competition, and promoting infrastructure sharing. The NCC also intends to protect telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure and streamline permitting processes to reduce costs. However, the commission has only completed roughly 25% of its planned 2026 site upgrade targets.

The new framework will emphasize digital literacy, cybersecurity, and meaningful connectivity, shifting from simply providing access to ensuring effective participation in the digital economy. Consultation continues as the NCC seeks to create a sustainable and adaptable policy for Nigeria’s evolving telecommunications landscape.