The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), a policy-driven initiative aimed at expanding internet access and accelerating broadband adoption across the country. This ambitious program targets key sectors such as schools, healthcare facilities, religious centers, and markets to create a sustainable broadband expansion model.
NBAN is part of the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025) and aligns with the Strategic Blueprint from the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The initiative’s goals include:
- Increasing broadband penetration from 44% in December 2024 to 70% by 2025.
- Ensuring minimum data speeds of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas.
- Boosting broadband investments by 300–500% by 2027.
The alliance brings together state governments, schools, hospitals, telecom operators, and infrastructure companies in a collaborative effort. A pilot program will begin in eight states: Edo, Ogun, Kwara, Katsina, Imo, Abia, Borno, and Nasarawa.
Public-Private Partnerships Critical to Success
“Achieving these ambitious goals requires more than just private-sector efforts,” said Aminu Maida, NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, during the initiative’s kick-off event in Lagos. “It calls for strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and stakeholders to accelerate the deployment of critical infrastructure.”
Related Telecom Developments
The NBAN announcement comes shortly after the NCC approved a 50% telecom tariff increase for operators, subject to improved service quality within three months. While the new tariffs are yet to take effect, telecom companies are preparing to meet the regulator’s requirements.
In a significant move, the NCC has also approved a roaming and spectrum-sharing agreement between MTN Nigeria and 9mobile. Under the deal:
- 9mobile will utilize MTN’s network infrastructure to improve its nationwide coverage.
- MTN will gain access to 9mobile’s spectrum holdings (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz bands), presenting a mutually beneficial profit-sharing opportunity.
Airtel Plans Expansion
Airtel Nigeria’s CEO Dinesh Balsingh announced plans to expand its network coverage, upgrade existing sites, and improve service delivery. However, meeting the NCC’s three-month service quality improvement deadline will be a considerable challenge given Nigeria’s current internet penetration levels.
- Nigeria’s internet penetration stands at 44%, far behind South Africa (74.7%) and Egypt (72.2%).
- 4G penetration is at 47%, while 5G adoption remains low at just 2.4%, two years after its launch.
Industry Challenges Beyond Tariff Increases
While the tariff increase will help telecom operators recover some revenue losses and support infrastructure development, multiple taxation, vandalism, and insecurity remain significant challenges. Gbenga Adebayo, President of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), stressed that these broader issues must also be addressed.
NCC’s Strategy for Broadband Growth
The NBAN initiative aims to tackle these challenges through a multi-faceted strategy:
- Streamlining regulatory processes to expedite fiber deployment across the country.
- Creating incentives for private-sector investment in underserved areas.
- Launching public awareness campaigns to promote broadband adoption and usage.
Looking Ahead
With internet access and digital connectivity becoming essential for economic growth, the NBAN initiative represents a bold step toward bridging Nigeria’s digital divide. By focusing on collaboration and regulatory reform, the NCC hopes to foster a more connected and inclusive society while enabling Nigeria to compete with leading African markets. However, consistent investment and coordinated efforts from both public and private sectors will be critical to achieving these goals.