By 
Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is back on a robust growth path. According to Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), industry optimisation driving post-pandemic recovery. Speaking at the unveiling of Nigeria’s first Digital Museum, Adebayo said the industry is witnessing its highest level of investments since before COVID-19, as operators expand and modernise networks nationwide.
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He commended IHS Towers for pioneering the Digital Museum project, describing it as a landmark initiative. It is a milestone that demonstrates the telecom industry’s role in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage while building future-ready infrastructure.
New Investments and Infrastructure Expansion
Adebayo revealed that ALTON members are building new sites, and upgrading infrastructure. Telcos are migrating from radio links to fibre networks to meet rising data and voice demands.
- Tower companies are strengthening site security against vandalism and theft.
- Removable batteries and generators are now fitted with trackers to trace stolen equipment.
- Telecom operators continue to appeal to the public to avoid purchasing stolen telecom materials.
“These efforts may cause temporary service disruptions, but they will ultimately deliver a much-improved user experience nationwide,” Adebayo assured.
Workforce Development and Service Quality
Highlighting capacity building, Adebayo said operators are training and retraining telecom engineers to adapt to new technologies. He reaffirmed ALTON’s commitment to meeting and surpassing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) service level requirements.
He also welcomed the appointment of Mr. Idris Olorunimbe as Chairman of NCC’s new Board, noting his reputation for excellence. “Working with the Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, and other Commissioners, we are confident the sector is on the right path to sustainability and growth,” he said.
Industry Rebranding and Investor Confidence
Adebayo celebrated the rebranding of Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services (EMTS) from 9Mobile to T2, describing it as a confidence boost for investors and a sign of renewed industry vibrancy.
“This transformation assures the public that good times are ahead for Nigeria’s telecom industry,” he said.
Right of Way and Enabling Environment
On the issue of Right of Way (RoW), Adebayo cautioned state governments against policies that hinder telecom infrastructure deployment.
“States that create hostile conditions for telecom operations risk being left behind in the digital race. Investments will simply shift to more supportive neighbouring states,” he warned.
Multiple Taxation Reforms Welcomed
Commending the Federal Government and the Presidential Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform Committee, Adebayo hailed ongoing efforts to tackle multiple taxation.
“With over 56 taxes and levies currently weighing down operators, the planned reforms—expected to commence in January 2026—will ease the burden, attract investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy,” he said.
ALTON Reaffirms Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Future
Concluding, Adebayo thanked industry stakeholders, the NCC leadership, and the Federal Government, stressing that the sector remains a driver of Nigeria’s economic growth.
“The transformation we are witnessing has not been experienced in years. With continued public support to protect telecom infrastructure, there is no stopping Nigeria’s telecom industry as a catalyst for national development.”
