Airtel Africa, other telcos invest over N2.3trn in network expansion in 2025, says ALTON

The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) revealed that telecom operators in the country invested more than N2.3 trillion in network expansion in 2025 and are planning another N1.8 trillion investment in 2026.

Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo on ARISE News on Thursday  said the investments are part of efforts by operators to improve connectivity and service quality following last year’s tariff review.

“I said earlier that after the review of last year, government made it clear to us that we must deepen our infrastructure penetration,” Adebayo said.

“What players have been doing since that review is to deepen our infrastructure, expand networks, deepen what I would call connectivity, make sure access is available to all people of Nigeria, wherever they live, and to ensure that we provide good quality services.”

Adebayo said operators have already committed significant resources to upgrading their networks in response to the expectations that accompanied the tariff increase approved in 2025.

“Last year, our members invested well over N2.3 trillion in network expansion,” he said.

“This year, another N1.8 trillion is planned for expansion.

“All of these are by-products of what came out of the entire review that was done last year.”

The ALTON chairman said the industry remains focused on building resilient infrastructure capable of supporting increased demand for telecom services across the country.

According to Adebayo, the industry is continuously expanding and strengthening telecom infrastructure to ensure reliable service delivery across the country.

He added that the infrastructure remains central to improving quality of service.

The telecoms expert said that operators recognise its importance and are working collectively to do what is necessary in the interest of Nigerian consumers.

Adebayo also sought to allay fears that the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) ongoing review of interconnect rates could lead to another increase in tariffs for subscribers.

“There are no conversations around tariff review at this time. There are no discussions around upward review of tariff for our consumers,” he said.

He said the exercise is a review of wholesale interconnect rates between telecom operators, aimed at ensuring the industry remains financially viable and able to deliver better service quality to consumers.

The federal government had ruled out new taxes on telecom services and petroleum products, despite a recent IMF recommendation urging Nigeria to introduce VAT on fuel and excise duties on telecommunications to boost revenue.