NCC Takes Decisive Action Against Illegal Signal Boosters to Improve Telecom Services
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed a significant enforcement operation that resulted in the removal of more than 450 illegal signal boosters across the Federal Capital Territory throughout 2025. This decisive action forms part of the commission's comprehensive strategy to enhance the quality of telecommunications services nationwide and address growing consumer concerns about network performance.
Network Degradation and Consumer Complaints Addressed
According to official statements from the regulatory body, these unauthorized devices were identified as major contributors to network degradation and a sharp increase in consumer complaints. The illegal boosters were discovered during targeted enforcement operations and were found to create substantial interference with network performance in surrounding areas, disrupting normal telecommunications operations.
The commission made this disclosure in response to a formal letter from the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, which outlined necessary steps to address transparency, enforcement, and service quality issues within the telecommunications sector. This information was obtained through official channels and represents the NCC's commitment to regulatory transparency.
Measurable Improvements Following Removal Operations
Post-removal assessments conducted by the NCC revealed immediate and measurable improvements in network quality. The regulator reported that at least 70 network sites recorded better performance metrics following the removal operations, accompanied by a noticeable reduction in consumer complaints related to service disruptions and poor connectivity.
The commission emphasized that resolving persistent Quality of Service (QoS) issues remains a central focus of its regulatory agenda for 2026. This approach prioritizes openness, faster regulatory response times, and visible improvements for telecommunications users across Nigeria.
Enhanced Transparency and Consumer Protection Measures
As part of its transparency initiatives, the NCC has expanded access to publicly available information to strengthen consumer confidence and encourage better service delivery by network operators. This includes the launch of a Major Outages Reporting Portal, which provides real-time updates on network disruptions and remedial actions being taken to address service issues.
On consumer protection, the NCC adopted a targeted complaints strategy focusing on poor service quality, data depletion concerns, and failed transaction refunds. The commission disclosed that over N10 billion has already been refunded to subscribers, with a more structured refund framework expected to be launched in March 2026.
Increased Investment and Regulatory Enforcement
The regulator also highlighted increased investment in the telecommunications sector, noting that approved tariff adjustments in January 2025 helped attract over $1 billion in new capital during the year. These investments supported the deployment of more than 2,850 new and upgraded network sites nationwide, contributing to infrastructure expansion and service improvement.
The commission has strengthened enforcement through revised Quality of Service regulations, routine audits, and sanctions against defaulting operators. In the fourth quarter of 2025 alone, audits of base stations in the FCT uncovered thousands of infractions, most of which were resolved before the end of the year.
Comprehensive Sector Review Underway
In related developments, the NCC has initiated a comprehensive review of competition in the telecommunications sector to assess whether recent increases in data and voice tariffs have led to improved service delivery for consumers. This review was launched through a stakeholder workshop held in January and focuses specifically on the voice and data segments of the industry.
The commission stated that the review will examine market structure, operator behavior, and service delivery outcomes to ensure that tariff adjustments translate into tangible benefits for Nigerian telecommunications consumers.
Overall, the NCC emphasized that these measures reflect its commitment to accountability, data-driven regulation, and sustained improvements in Nigeria's telecommunications services. The removal of illegal signal boosters represents just one component of a broader regulatory strategy aimed at enhancing network quality, protecting consumer interests, and fostering a more transparent telecommunications environment.
