NCC Reports: Over 2,850 New Network Sites Deployed Amid $1bn Investment
Nigeria Network Site
The Nigerian telecommunications industry recorded a significant milestone in 2025, attracting over $1 billion in capital investments. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), this surge in capital inflows facilitated the deployment of more than 2,850 new network sites across the country, significantly expanding both coverage and capacity within the digital ecosystem.
Investment-Driven Infrastructure Expansion
The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, disclosed these figures following the formal release of the commission’s Fourth Quarter 2025 Network Performance Reports. The assessment, conducted in collaboration with global internet analytics firm Ookla, indicates that the $1 billion investment was the primary driver behind the improved service quality observed in the latter half of the year.
Dr. Maida noted that the deployment of these 2,850+ sites has strengthened the national 4G backbone and narrowed the video "Quality of Experience" gap between urban and rural communities. "These reports enable us to track progress, identify gaps, and guide targeted regulatory interventions ranging from spectrum optimisation to infrastructure upgrades," Maida stated.
Data-Driven Performance and Quality Benchmarks
The Q4 2025 report highlights steady gains in median download speeds across both urban and rural areas compared to the previous quarter. The collaboration with Ookla provided real-world performance metrics across various terrains, including highways and emerging 5G zones.
Despite the positive trajectory, the NCC boss acknowledged that challenges remain. Persistent gaps in 5G availability, upload speeds, and overall mobile service coverage continue to be areas of regulatory focus. The commission is reportedly engaged in ongoing discussions with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to address these disparities and ensure a more uniform digital experience for all subscribers.
Key performance takeaways from the report include:
Increased Median Download Speeds: Notable improvements in data throughput across the federation.
Rural Connectivity Gains: A reduction in the performance disparity between city centres and rural communities.
4G Backbone Fortification: Enhanced stability in high traffic 4G zones.
Outlook for 2026: Sustained Capital Inflows
The NCC remains optimistic about the sector’s growth trajectory in the coming year. Dr. Maida revealed that industry operators have committed to exceeding their 2025 investment levels in 2026. This signal of sustained capital inflow suggests a push for even broader connectivity and the acceleration of 5G deployment nationwide.
The commission’s focus for 2026 will transition toward stricter Quality of Service (QoS) enforcement and further expansion into underserved areas. This aligns with the Federal Government's broader mandate to deepen digital inclusion and position Nigeria as a leading digital economy in Africa.
The $1 billion investment landmark underscores the resilience and attractiveness of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector despite broader macroeconomic challenges. As the NCC shifts toward a more transparent, data driven regulatory framework, the continued collaboration between the government and private operators will be vital. For investors and policymakers, the 2025 performance reports serve as evidence that targeted infrastructure spending remains the most effective tool for bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and enhancing service delivery for its 220 million residents.
