Nigerian telcos press states to cut fiber costs amid broadband expansion woes

Nigeria's telecom sector is facing significant hurdles in expanding broadband access, with industry leaders calling on state governments to alleviate cost pressures related to fiber optic deployment. The Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria highlighted that rising infrastructure damage, uneven policy enforcement, and high rollout costs are collectively jeopardizing the nation's broadband expansion goals.

At a recent forum in Lagos, stakeholders stressed that cost reforms, stronger infrastructure protection, and enhanced coordination between federal and state authorities are vital for the success of nationwide fiber-to-the-home initiatives. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, underscored the importance of fiber infrastructure as a foundational element of Nigeria's digital economy, advocating for it to be treated as a national development priority.

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Fibre infrastructure is now foundational to Nigeria’s digital economy, inclusive growth, and global competitiveness. If internet connectivity underpins how Nigerians learn, work, trade, and govern, then fibre deployment must be treated as a national imperative.

Maida pointed to the Federal Government's Project BRIDGE, which aims to deploy approximately 90,000 kilometers of additional fiber optic cable, as central to expanding broadband access. However, he cautioned that infrastructure protection remains a major obstacle. Between January and December 2025, the industry reported over 27,685 fiber cuts, more than 27,000 cases of access denial, and 4,210 theft incidents. "These figures underline why the protection of telecommunications infrastructure must now be treated as a shared national duty," Maida stated, emphasizing the need for full implementation of the presidential order designating telecom infrastructure as critical national information infrastructure.

Operators also cited the high cost of right-of-way approvals from some state governments as a significant impediment, slowing deployment and increasing project expenses. While thirteen states have waived these charges and sixteen have adopted the National Economic Council's recommended rate, many operators argue that excessive charges, approval delays, and multiple permitting requirements discourage investment. The NCC urged states to prioritize the long-term economic value of digital infrastructure over short-term revenue gains. Beyond costs, weak coordination and inadequate infrastructure planning were also identified as constraints to Nigeria's fiber rollout.

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These figures underline why the protection of telecommunications infrastructure must now be treated as a shared national duty.