The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the National Broadband Alliance (NBAN) policy to expand internet access in the country.
This policy focuses on sectors where the public interacts, such as healthcare facilities, religious centers, schools, and markets. Its aim is to promote widespread broadband adoption in a sustainable manner.
The project aligns with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan (2020-2025) and the Strategic Roadmap from the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
The goal is to increase broadband penetration to 70% by 2025, with a target of minimum speeds of 25 Mbps in cities and 10 Mbps in rural areas. Additionally, broadband investments are expected to rise by 300% to 500% by 2027.
NBAN started with a pilot program in eight states: Edo, Ogun, Kwara, Katsina, Imo, Abia, Borno, and Nasarawa. Furthermore, on January 20, 2025, the NCC approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators, but this increase is conditional on service quality improvements within three months of implementation.
The NCC has also approved a roaming and frequency-sharing agreement between MTN Nigeria and 9mobile. Under this agreement, 9mobile will use MTN’s national infrastructure to improve its network coverage.
9mobile subscribers will be able to make calls, send messages, and use data services in areas where 9mobile lacks coverage. For MTN, this partnership offers access to 9mobile’s frequency bands, including 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz.
As of January 2025, Nigeria’s internet penetration remains at 44%, while South Africa and Egypt have penetration rates of 74.7% and 72.2%, respectively. Nigeria needs such an initiative to catch up with its continental competitors.
However, Nigeria faces more internet-related issues than just this. The 4G penetration stands at 47%, while 5G is only at 2.4%. Internet speed also remains a significant issue for the country.
With this initiative, Nigeria will take a significant step towards sustainable improvement.