NCC Pledges Reliable Internet Access Nationwide
By Patience Ikpeme
The telecommunications landscape in Nigeria has undergone remarkable transformation over the last two decades, evolving from basic voice services to high-speed data connectivity that fosters innovation and digital interaction.
This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja.
Dr. Maida highlighted significant achievements in the sector, including an estimated 132 million internet connections in Nigeria, positioning the country as a key player in the global digital space, which now has over five billion internet users.
“Nigerians spend an average of four hours and 20 minutes daily on social media, exceeding the global average,” Dr. Maida said. He noted that this underscores how deeply digital interaction is embedded in everyday life, with Nigeria ranking among the top internet users globally.
In 2024, Nigeria’s daily data usage reached an average of 336 gigabytes per second, marking a 39% increase from the previous year. According to Dr. Maida, this data-driven lifestyle reflects the growing demand for reliable and affordable internet services nationwide.
“The telecommunications landscape in Nigeria has transformed significantly over the past 20 years. With the rollout of 3G, 4G, and now 5G, we’ve seen Nigerians embracing social media, e-commerce, online banking, and more,” he stated.
Dr. Maida traced the evolution of telecom services in Nigeria, noting that the introduction of 3G in the mid-2000s enabled basic browsing and email, while the transition to 4G LTE brought faster speeds, supporting activities like video streaming and online gaming. The recent rollout of 5G networks is set to further enhance these digital experiences.
The NCC boss reiterated the Commission’s commitment to ensuring sustainable quality services in the sector, particularly in extending internet access to underserved and unserved areas of the country.
“Wherever Nigerians are, they should have access to reliable and affordable internet services. We are committed to working tirelessly to achieve this goal,” Dr. Maida assured.
He emphasized that the NCC’s Strategic Vision prioritizes meeting the expectations of stakeholders, including consumers, licensees, and the government.
Dr. Maida acknowledged that challenges persist in service delivery but affirmed the Commission’s readiness to address them effectively. “The NCC remains dedicated to overcoming these challenges and ensuring that telecommunications services meet the needs of Nigerians in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” he said.
The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and how it can continue to drive economic growth, innovation, and digital inclusivity.
With its focus on advancing digital connectivity and improving service quality, the NCC’s leadership is poised to consolidate Nigeria’s position as a global leader in the digital economy.
