By Rosemary Nwanpka
ABUJA — The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has attributed ongoing Quality of Service (QoS) challenges in the telecom sector to the rapid surge in data consumption, noting that operators are intensifying investments to boost network capacity and coverage.
Speaking at a media breakfast meeting in Abuja on Friday, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, acknowledged that while network performance is showing signs of improvement, it still falls short of regulatory benchmarks.
According to him, recent independent user-based assessments indicate gradual progress in service delivery.
However, he explained that the gains are being offset by rising demand, as improved services encourage higher data usage, placing renewed pressure on telecom infrastructure.
“We are not yet at our desired level, but we are beginning to see encouraging signs,” Maida said. “At the same time, consumption is rising sharply. It creates a cycle where upgrades lead to increased usage, which then puts more strain on the system.”
He revealed that data consumption has jumped by about 170 per cent over the past two years, describing the trend as a key driver of current network challenges. Maida added that telecom operators are responding with increased investments, including a significant scale-up in site upgrades this year to enhance both coverage and capacity.
The NCC boss also outlined ongoing regulatory measures aimed at strengthening the sector, including policy reviews, the rollout of cybersecurity frameworks, and collaboration with security agencies to safeguard telecom infrastructure.
Also speaking, the Commission’s Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, praised the media for its role in promoting transparency and accountability within the telecom industry.
She noted that accurate and consistent reporting has helped inform Nigerians about key developments affecting their daily lives and has fostered greater understanding of the country’s digital landscape.
“Your reporting has not only kept the public informed but has also helped hold both the Commission and industry players accountable,” she said.
Makama reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to sustained engagement with stakeholders as part of efforts to drive growth and improve service delivery across the sector.
In her welcome remarks, the NCC’s Head of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, said the forum underscores the Commission’s dedication to transparency and continuous dialogue with stakeholders.
She noted that the engagement fulfills a commitment to make such interactions a regular feature, reinforcing the NCC’s focus on accountability and openness.
The Commission emphasized that strong collaboration with the media remains vital to keeping the public informed and advancing development in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
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