By Peace Udugba – The Daily Torch Media
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that mobile network operators (MNOs) have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 network coverage and capacity sites they committed to providing across the country.
The figure represents approximately 70 per cent implementation of the commitments made by operators to expand network coverage, improve capacity and enhance the quality of telecommunications services nationwide.
The NCC disclosed this in a communiqué issued at the end of its 110th Board Meeting, held on September 9, 2026.
According to the Commission, the latest deployment represents significant progress compared with the approximately 5,000 sites reported at its previous board meeting.
The Board, however, expressed concern over the impact of fibre cuts on telecommunications services, noting that they contributed to a sharp increase in network disruptions in June.
It stressed that the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure must be accompanied by stronger protection of critical communications infrastructure to improve network resilience and service reliability.
NCC Strengthens Digital Trust, Device Security
The Board also reviewed the Commission’s deployment of technology platforms designed to strengthen trust, security and integrity within Nigeria’s telecommunications ecosystem and the wider digital economy.
It noted that the Device Management System (DMS) is now live and supporting improved compliance with the Commission’s type-approval requirements.
The system is expected to strengthen the NCC’s ability to verify telecommunications device compliance, discourage the circulation of non-compliant devices and support efforts to combat mobile device theft.
Through the DMS, reported stolen mobile devices can be blocked across Nigerian telecommunications networks.
The Board also noted that the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) and its associated business rules are scheduled to go live in October 2026.
The system is expected to strengthen the governance of telecommunications identities, including mobile numbers, and reduce risks associated with their misuse, reassignment and recycling.
The NCC said the measure is particularly important as mobile numbers become increasingly linked to financial, social and other digital services.
The Board reaffirmed the importance of implementing the regulatory technology platforms in ways that protect consumers, support lawful digital services, strengthen market integrity and comply with applicable legal, privacy and data-protection requirements.
Educational Platforms to Go Zero-Rated
The Board also reviewed progress towards establishing a framework for zero-rating educational platforms and content in Nigeria.
The initiative is aimed at promoting digital inclusion and improving students’ access to educational resources.
The Board commended the collaboration of the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders in advancing the initiative.
According to the communiqué, the initiative was scheduled for official launch on September 10, 2026, with the go-live date set for October 1, 2026.
The Board said it would continue to monitor the implementation of the initiative to ensure its sustainability.
NCC Plans Strategic Repositioning of Digital Bridge Institute
The Board also considered proposals for the strategic repositioning of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), including the development of a roadmap to strengthen the institute’s relevance and long-term sustainability.
It noted a proposed phased approach to the exercise, supported by two independent consultancies.
The first consultancy will conduct a comprehensive assessment of DBI’s structure, operations, human resources and institutional position.
The second will examine the commercial and legal viability of the proposed repositioning initiative.
NCC Raises Alarm Over Resurgence of Call Masking
The Board expressed concern over what it described as a resurgence of call masking activities in the telecommunications industry.
It said call masking poses serious implications for the integrity, security and orderly development of the telecommunications ecosystem.
The Commission reiterated its zero-tolerance position on call masking, describing the practice as unacceptable and a serious regulatory concern.
According to the Board, call masking undermines legitimate telecommunications operations, distorts industry revenues and constitutes economic sabotage capable of negatively affecting the national economy.
The NCC said it would continue working with relevant security and law-enforcement agencies, as well as telecommunications industry stakeholders, to identify, prevent and eliminate call masking activities.
The Board concluded by reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to transparency and regulatory actions that promote network resilience, digital trust, inclusive connectivity, consumer protection, fair competition and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s digital economy.
