Telcos to invest N1.8trn in network expansion in 2026

THE Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) says telecommunications companies are planning to invest N1.8 trillion in network expansion in 2026 after spending more than N2.3 trillion on infrastructure development in 2025.

Chairman of ALTON, Mr Gbenga Adebayo, disclosed this on Thursday during an interview on ARISE News, saying the investments are part of commitments made by operators following last year’s tariff review.

According to him, the federal government had directed operators to deepen infrastructure penetration and improve service delivery across the country after approving the tariff adjustment.

Adebayo said telecom firms have since intensified efforts to expand network coverage, strengthen connectivity and improve access to telecommunications services for Nigerians irrespective of location.

READ ALSO: Telcos rubbish Senate concerns over Nigeria’s electronic result transmission ahead 2027 elections

He noted that operators invested over N2.3 trillion in network expansion in 2025 and have earmarked another N1.8 trillion for infrastructure development this year, describing the expenditure as one of the outcomes of the tariff review process.

The ALTON chairman said the industry remains focused on building resilient telecommunications infrastructure capable of meeting rising demand for digital and communication services nationwide.

He added that sustained investment in infrastructure remains critical to improving quality of service and ensuring reliable connectivity for consumers.

Adebayo also dismissed concerns that the ongoing review of interconnect rates by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) could trigger another increase in telecom tariffs.

“There are no conversations around tariff review at this time. There are no discussions around upward review of tariff for our consumers,” he said.

He explained that the NCC exercise is limited to reviewing wholesale interconnect rates among operators to ensure the industry’s financial sustainability and support improved service delivery.

His comments come as the federal government recently ruled out imposing new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products despite recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that Nigeria introduce VAT on fuel and excise duties on telecom services to raise revenue.