Tinubu welcomes Airtel’s Open Network, demands better telecoms services

President Bola Tinubu has welcomed Airtel Nigeria’s Open Network initiative, urging telecommunications operators to improve network coverage, reduce service disruptions and respond promptly to customer complaints.

The President described the initiative as a positive step towards greater transparency, consumer protection and improved telecommunications services in the country.

According to a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the initiative was unveiled in Lagos on October 30, 2026.

The platform allows subscribers to access information about network developments in their areas and report service difficulties directly to Airtel.

Tinubu said the initiative aligned with his administration’s commitment to encouraging private-sector investment, expanding digital infrastructure and ensuring Nigerians enjoy more reliable telecommunications services.

He welcomed the growing emphasis on transparency in the sector, including the Nigerian Communications Commission’s public network coverage maps, performance information and consumer satisfaction surveys.

The President said the measures would help Nigerians understand the services available to them and hold operators accountable.

Tinubu also highlighted the Federal Government’s Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative, implemented through the NCC in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education and telecommunications operators.

The programme provides eligible students with up to 100MB of free daily data to access approved educational websites and learning resources.

According to him, the initiative reflects his administration’s determination to make digital opportunities more accessible, particularly to young Nigerians.

The President recalled his meeting with the Founder and Chairman of Bharti Airtel, Sunil Bharti Mittal, at the State House, Abuja, in February 2025, during which he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for telecommunications investment.

The President said, “The success of telecommunications investment and innovation must ultimately be measured by the experience of Nigerians who depend on these services for their livelihoods, businesses and everyday communication.”