NCC Reports 70% Deployment of MNO Infrastructure Commitments, Moves Against Call Masking

By Tope Bankole

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that mobile network operators (MNOs) have deployed 8,526 of the 12,179 additional coverage and capacity sites committed to expanding telecommunications infrastructure across the country.

The figure represents approximately 70 per cent implementation of the commitments made by the operators to improve network coverage, capacity and quality of experience for telecommunications consumers.

The NCC Board disclosed this at its 110th meeting held on September 9, 2026, where it reviewed strategic priorities, operational performance and developments within the telecommunications industry.

According to the Board, the latest deployment represents a significant improvement from the approximately 5,000 sites reported at its previous meeting.

However, the Board expressed concern over network disruptions caused by fibre cuts, noting that the incidents contributed to a sharp increase in service disruptions in June.

It stressed that infrastructure expansion must be accompanied by stronger protection of critical telecommunications infrastructure, as well as sustained efforts to improve network resilience and service reliability.

DMS goes live, TIRMS set for October

The Board also reviewed measures aimed at strengthening digital trust, security and regulatory compliance within Nigeria's telecommunications ecosystem.

It noted that the Commission's Device Management System (DMS) is now operational and is supporting enhanced compliance with type-approval requirements.

The system is expected to strengthen the NCC's ability to verify compliant telecommunications devices, 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 disclosed that the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS), together with its associated business rules, is 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 the misuse, reassignment and recycling of such identities.

The Board noted that the development is particularly important as mobile numbers become increasingly linked to financial, social and other digital services.

It, however, directed that the deployment of the regulatory technology platforms must protect consumers, support legitimate digital services and strengthen market integrity while complying with applicable legal, privacy and data-protection requirements.

NCC moves to zero-rate educational platforms

The Board further reviewed progress towards establishing a framework for the zero-rating of educational platforms and content in Nigeria.

The initiative is designed to promote digital inclusion and improve students' access to educational resources online.

The Board commended the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders for their collaboration in advancing the initiative.

It disclosed that the initiative would be officially launched on September 10, 2026, while the go-live date has been scheduled for October 1, 2026.

The Board said the Commission would continue to monitor the implementation to ensure its sustainability.

Digital Bridge Institute to undergo strategic repositioning

The Board also considered recommendations for the strategic repositioning of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), including the development of a roadmap aimed at strengthening its relevance and long-term sustainability.

It noted a proposed phased approach to the exercise, supported by two independent consultancies.

According to the Board, the first consultancy will conduct a comprehensive assessment of DBI's structure, operations, human resources and institutional position.

The second consultancy will examine the commercial and legal viability of the proposed repositioning initiative.

NCC declares zero tolerance for call masking

The Board expressed concern over the resurgence of call masking activities in the telecommunications industry, warning that the practice poses risks to the integrity, security and orderly development of the sector.

It reiterated the Commission's zero-tolerance position on call masking, describing the practice as unacceptable and a serious regulatory concern.

The Board said call masking undermines legitimate telecommunications operations, distorts industry revenues and constitutes an act of economic sabotage capable of adversely affecting the national economy.

It reaffirmed the NCC's resolve to work with security and law-enforcement agencies, as well as industry stakeholders, to identify, prevent and eliminate call masking activities.

The Board said the Commission would continue to promote transparency in its operations and pursue regulatory measures aimed at strengthening network resilience, digital trust, inclusive connectivity, consumer protection and fair competition.

It added that these measures were critical to supporting the sustainable growth of Nigeria's digital economy.

The NCC Board meeting was held on September 9, 2026.