Table of Contents
- Warning Against Site Closures
- Impact on Broadband Expansion
- NCC's Call for Tax Harmonization
- Importance of Broadband as National Asset
- Current Broadband Penetration
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a strong warning to state governments regarding the shutdown of telecommunications sites due to revenue or local conflicts.
Ribadu delivered this warning on Wednesday in Abuja during a Business Roundtable focused on Enhancing Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Protecting Critical National Infrastructure. He emphasized that such actions pose a threat to Nigeria’s digital future and economic development.
Represented by Enebong Effiom, the Director of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection at the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ribadu noted that arbitrary site closures, excessive taxation, and inconsistent right-of-way fees are obstructing the country's broadband growth.
“In fact, apart from the right-of-way challenges, some states aim to generate revenue through their internal security frameworks, consulting various figures. Before long, sites are shut down, and we have had to intervene in these situations,” he stated.
“We hope that by the conclusion of this discussion, such actions will cease, as these state security entities do not grasp the broader implications.”
“They believe they are assisting their superiors, but in reality, they are restricting the states' potential and hindering economic progress across the nation,” he added.
DAILY POST recalls that in July 2025, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reiterated the need for the harmonization of taxes and levies in the telecommunications sector, cautioning that the current fiscal pressures are undermining the industry's capabilities.
The NSA further emphasized that broadband infrastructure should be regarded not merely as business ventures but as essential national assets.
He elaborated that Nigeria's broadband penetration is approximately 40 percent, significantly below the 70 percent goal set by the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025.
What is the warning issued by Nuhu Ribadu regarding telecommunications sites?
Nuhu Ribadu warned state governments against shutting down telecommunications sites over revenue or local disputes, stating that such actions threaten Nigeria's digital future and economic growth.
What are the consequences of shutting down telecommunications sites?
Shutting down telecommunications sites can hinder broadband expansion, limit economic development, and restrict the potential of states within Nigeria.
What is the current state of broadband penetration in Nigeria?
As of now, Nigeria's broadband penetration stands at approximately 40 percent, which is significantly lower than the 70 percent target outlined in the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025.
