The Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, announced that telecoms investment in Nigeria had grown from $38 billion to $77 billion by the second quarter of 2023. Speaking at a media chat with stakeholders in Kano, he stated that the telecommunications sector had contributed 16 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during this period.
According to Danbatta, this significant growth in the telecom sector’s contribution to GDP can be attributed to sustained regulatory excellence and operational efficiency by the NCC. The sector has witnessed explosive growth, improved regulatory standards, and digital innovation, earning global recognition over the past two decades.
Some key statistics shared by Danbatta include:
- Telephone users in Nigeria: 218.9 million
- Internet subscribers: 159.5 million
- Broadband users: 88.7 million
However, the NCC boss highlighted challenges such as right of way issues, fiber cuts, high capital requirements for deployment, multiple taxations, and regulatory barriers that hinder broadband deployment in the country. He assured that the NCC would work to address these challenges and continue to promote affordable and accessible telecom services.
Danbatta also announced plans to establish an emergency communication center in each of the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. These centers will bridge the gap between distressed individuals and emergency response agencies.
The NCC is committed to supporting research and education in the telecom sector, increasing research grants for universities from N20 million to N30 million. Three universities have already benefited from this initiative.
Despite the positive growth and contributions of the telecom sector to the Nigerian economy, challenges such as the destruction of telecom facilities and multiple taxes imposed on telecommunication companies persist. The NCC remains focused on addressing these issues and engaging with stakeholders to keep the public informed about its activities.