Growing data demand driving network quality issues — NCC

By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA — The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has linked Quality of Service (QoS) challenges across telecom networks to rising data consumption, stating that operators are ramping up efforts to sustain investments to improve coverage and capacity.

Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida stated this during a breakfast meeting with the media in Abuja on Friday, where he noted that while service quality is improving, it is yet to meet regulatory expectations.

He said recent data shows positive signals from independent user-based measurements, indicating that network performance is getting better rather than deteriorating.

However, he explained that increased usage is offsetting gains, creating a cycle where improved services trigger higher demand, which in turn puts fresh pressure on infrastructure.

“We’re still not where we want to be, but are we satisfied as a regulator? I would say within the context for which we operate, I think the area of satisfaction is the fact that we’re beginning to see the right signals. But at the same time, we also see a rise in consumption. So it’s like a cycle. As they’re making investments and making upgrades, people are consuming more,” he said.

Maida disclosed that data consumption has risen by about 170 per cent in the last two years, describing the surge as a major factor behind network strain. The EVC added that operators are responding with increased investments, with site upgrades expected to rise significantly this year to expand both coverage and capacity.

He also highlighted regulatory efforts to improve industry sustainability, including ongoing policy reviews, cybersecurity framework implementation, and collaboration with security agencies to protect telecom infrastructure.

Also speaking, the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission, Mrs Rimini Makama, commended the media for its role in shaping public understanding of the telecom industry. She said consistent and accurate reporting has helped deepen accountability within the Commission and the broader industry.

She said, “Over the past year, you have helped both the Commission and industry understand what is going on in our industry and you have also helped hold us accountable to that. You have consistently informed millions of Nigerians about the developments that affect their daily productivity and have brought important conversations about our digital futures in the public space. For that, we are very grateful.”

Makama added that the Commission would continue to deepen engagement with stakeholders as part of efforts to drive sector growth and improve service delivery.

Earlier in her welcome address, Head of Public Affairs, NCC, Mrs Nnenna Ukoha said the engagement reflects the commission’s commitment to sustained dialogue with stakeholders and transparency in its operations.

“Last year our EVC said it’s going to be a recurring one. Our gathering here today is a fulfilment of that promise and a clear demonstration of his commitment, transparency, accountability and continuous stakeholder engagement,” she said.

The Commission reiterated that sustained collaboration with the media remains critical to informing the public and advancing development across Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape.