Nigeria’s telecommunications industry is set to attract N1.86 trillion in fresh investment this year as operators seek stronger support to accelerate digital infrastructure development.
The News Chronicle reports that the projected spend will be on rolling out fibre, upgrading technology, growing and improving telecommunication infrastructure, and better customer service.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria stated that the need for continued investment and sustainable policies in the sector must be sustained to maintain Nigeria’s status as Africa’s 3rd digital economy.
ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo stated that telecommunication is now at the centre of banking, health, education, manufacturing, and other critical sectors of the economy.
The industry spent N2.13 trillion on capital expenditure in 2025. The recent adjustment of tariffs has helped the operators return to profitability and increase investment in the industry.
Gbenga Adebayo called for more protection of telecom infrastructure, following its reclassification as critical national information infrastructure.
Nigeria’s ambitions for excellence in artificial intelligence will require robust broadband and data centres, cloud computing platforms, and electricity.
The industry also called on the regulators, banks, and government to improve the valuation reports of investments, eliminate multiple taxation, and expedite the right of way approvals.
The operators also stated that improved collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital to achieving success in the digital economy.
