NCC Pushes for 5G Expansion Across Nigeria, Bridging the Connectivity Gap
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has intensified its efforts to ensure the rapid expansion of 5G technology across the country. Since the first commercial rollout in 2022, 5G adoption has grown steadily, but many regions remain uncovered. The NCC’s latest plan aims to accelerate this growth, focusing on infrastructure sharing, investment incentives, and digital inclusion for underserved communities.
The regulator believes that 5G is essential to powering Nigeria’s digital economy. From smart cities to telemedicine, 5G will enable faster connectivity, lower latency, and new business opportunities. However, achieving nationwide coverage requires overcoming major challenges like infrastructure costs, power supply, and right-of-way disputes with state governments.
The NCC is currently working with operators like MTN, Airtel, and Mafab Communications to expand 5G services beyond major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The goal is to ensure that by 2026, at least 60% of the population has access to reliable 5G connectivity. This will place Nigeria among Africa’s leaders in digital transformation.
To support this vision, the NCC is introducing flexible licensing models and encouraging infrastructure sharing among telecom companies. By reducing duplication of network assets, the regulator hopes to lower operational costs and speed up rollout timelines. These reforms are part of a larger strategy to attract foreign investment and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a tech-driven economy.
5G is expected to revolutionize sectors beyond telecommunications. Industries like agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and education stand to benefit from enhanced data capabilities. For example, smart farming tools could help farmers improve yield predictions, while remote medical consultations could become more efficient with real-time video and data streaming.
Despite the excitement, experts warn that affordability and device compatibility remain major barriers. Many Nigerians still use 3G or 4G-enabled devices, limiting access to 5G networks. The NCC has urged smartphone manufacturers to produce affordable 5G devices tailored to emerging markets like Nigeria. This move could accelerate adoption and inclusion.
Telecom operators have also been advised to maintain fair pricing models to avoid making 5G a luxury service. The NCC emphasized that technology should serve the masses, not just the elite. By ensuring competitive data rates and wide accessibility, Nigeria can fully harness the potential of next-generation connectivity.
The government’s National Broadband Plan 2020–2025 supports the 5G rollout as part of its mission to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025. This aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to be one of Africa’s top digital economies. Strong collaboration between public and private stakeholders will be key to making that vision a reality.
In summary, 5G expansion represents more than a technological upgrade it’s a foundation for economic empowerment and innovation. With the NCC’s renewed commitment, Nigeria is set to unlock new levels of digital growth, drive job creation, and bring the power of high-speed internet to every corner of the nation.