Mobile network operators have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 additional coverage and capacity sites committed to the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, representing about 70 per cent completion.
The development was disclosed in the communiqué issued after the 110th meeting of the NCC Governing Board held on September 9, 2026.
The Board noted that the number of deployed sites had risen from about 5,000 reported at its previous meeting, indicating accelerated progress in efforts to expand network coverage, capacity and quality of experience across the country.
However, it expressed concern over a sharp rise in network disruptions in June, which it attributed partly to fibre cuts.
The Board said infrastructure expansion must be matched by stronger protection of critical communications infrastructure, stressing the need for continued attention to network resilience and service reliability.
The Board also reviewed the Commission’s technology platforms aimed at strengthening security and trust in the telecommunications ecosystem.
It noted that the Device Management System (DMS) is now live and is being used to improve type approval compliance, verify device compliance and discourage the circulation of non compliant devices.
The system will also support efforts to combat mobile device theft by enabling reported stolen devices to be blocked across Nigerian networks.
The Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS), together with its associated business rules, is scheduled to go live in October 2026.
According to the Board, TIRMS will strengthen the governance of telecommunications identities, including mobile numbers, and reduce risks associated with the misuse, reassignment or recycling of identities increasingly linked to financial, social and other digital services.
The Board also reviewed progress towards zero rating educational platforms and content, noting that the initiative is designed to promote digital inclusion and improve students’ access to educational resources.
The initiative is scheduled for official launch on September 10, with its go live date fixed for October 1, 2026.
On the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), the Board considered proposals for its strategic repositioning, including a phased roadmap aimed at strengthening its relevance and long term sustainability.
It approved the proposed use of two independent consultancies, with one expected to audit the institute’s structure, operations, human resources and institutional position, while the other will assess the commercial and legal viability of the proposed repositioning.
The Board also expressed concern over the resurgence of call masking activities in the telecommunications industry and reaffirmed the NCC’s zero tolerance position on the practice.
It said call masking undermines legitimate telecommunications operations, distorts industry revenues and constitutes economic sabotage capable of affecting the national economy.
The Board said the Commission would continue to work with security and law enforcement agencies and industry stakeholders to identify, prevent and eliminate call masking activities.
It reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to network resilience, digital trust, inclusive connectivity, consumer protection, fair competition and sustainable growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.