Nigeria Telecoms Regulator Removes 450 Illegal Boosters, Fines Operators N45 Million to Improve Service Quality

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stepped up efforts to improve telecom service quality by dismantling over 450 illegal signal boosters in 2025 and fining operators a combined N45 million ($29,000). The devices, mostly found across the Federal Capital Territory, were degrading network performance and prompting consumer complaints. The regulator says these actions are part of a broader transparency and enforcement initiative aimed at improving connectivity nationwide.

In a report to Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the NCC highlighted that the removal of these unauthorised boosters led to measurable improvements at 70 network sites, according to operator metrics and crowdsourced data. Consumers have already reported fewer disruptions, signaling early success in the commission’s drive to enhance overall service quality and responsiveness.

The regulator emphasized that quality-of-service challenges remain a key focus for 2026. NCC initiatives include increased public disclosure, a Major Outages Reporting Portal, and a crowdsourced National Coverage Map to allow consumers to track network performance in real-time. Operators are also required to notify subscribers of major outages and maintenance activities, strengthening accountability across the industry.

Beyond enforcement, the NCC reported that Nigeria’s telecom sector attracted over $1 billion in fresh investment in 2025, with more than 2,850 new and upgraded network sites rolled out nationwide. In addition, spectrum trades and reassignments, including a 10 MHz allocation to Globacom, have boosted 4G speeds from 9.5 Mbps to 15 Mbps in some areas, ensuring that improvements benefit everyday users.

The NCC’s consumer protection measures have also targeted frequent complaints such as rapid data depletion, failed transactions, and refund delays. With more than N10 billion already refunded in collaboration with operators and financial institutions, the regulator plans to launch a formal framework in March 2026. Enforcement remains strong, with fines imposed on Globacom, Airtel, and IHS, and further cases carrying potential liabilities of N12.4 billion under review.

source: business day