Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has warned telecom operators to fix persistent network problems or face regulatory sanctions.
The warning targets major operators including MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and T2, formerly known as 9mobile.
According to Tijani, telecom companies now have the financial strength and operating environment needed to improve service quality across the country.
The minister disclosed this in a statement shared on Sunday. He explained that government-backed investments in digital infrastructure are expected to strengthen connectivity nationwide within the next few years.
Tijani revealed that the Federal Government has secured funding support through the World Bank-backed Project BRIDGE initiative. The project aims to expand fibre infrastructure and improve nationwide internet access.
“We have secured funding, led by the World Bank, and established the framework for a special purpose vehicle with Project BRIDGE to deliver nationwide open-access fibre infrastructure,” he said.
According to him, fibre deployment and new tower rollouts under NUCAP will begin before the end of the year.
He added that the government is also expanding satellite connectivity to improve digital access across underserved areas.
Telcos face pressure over network challenges
The minister stressed that Nigerians deserve better telecom services after years of complaints about dropped calls, slow internet speeds, and unstable connections.
“A small business owner should be able to access reliable, high-speed fibre internet directly at their home or shop, rather than relying solely on dongles or unstable mobile connections,” Tijani stated.
He explained that operators now work within a more stable and transparent market environment. According to him, this means telecom firms have the resources needed to resolve existing service issues.
“It is now the responsibility of telecom operators such as MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and T2 to take all necessary steps to resolve network challenges and deliver the level of service Nigerians expect,” he added.
Tijani also said the Nigerian Communications Commission has full authority to monitor operators and enforce compliance without interference.
The minister noted that the government will continue monitoring reports from the NCC alongside feedback from telecom users across public platforms.
“Going forward, we expect to see clear and measurable improvements in call quality, data performance, and coverage,” he warned.
He further stressed that operators delivering quality service would receive recognition, while those failing to improve may face regulatory action.
“Where they do not, the Commission is expected to take appropriate regulatory action,” Tijani stated.
NCC pushes stricter telecom standards
The latest warning follows recent moves by the Nigerian Communications Commission to strengthen consumer protection in the telecom sector.
The commission recently directed operators to compensate subscribers affected by poor network service in different locations across Nigeria.
The NCC has also intensified quality monitoring following growing complaints over weak network performance nationwide.
In 2024, the regulator introduced stricter Quality of Service regulations covering call drop rates, network congestion, and data performance standards.
The measures form part of broader efforts to improve network challenges in Nigeria and ensure users receive value for the services they pay for.
I am passionate about crafting stories, vibing to good music (and making some too), debating Nigeria’s political future like it’s the World Cup, and finding the perfect quiet spot to work and unwind.
No Comments