From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has called for increased investment in the telecommunications sector to meet rising demand for data and digital services and expand network capacity across the country.
The association said growing internet usage, adoption of digital technologies and increasing reliance on online services were putting pressure on existing telecommunications infrastructure, making further investment necessary to sustain service delivery.
The Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo, made the call during a panel discussion on attracting investment to Nigeria at the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja yesterday.
Adebayo said operators needed more funds to expand network capacity, develop fibre-optic infrastructure and replace ageing equipment to meet the country’s growing connectivity needs.
He also called for consistent government policies and stronger protection of telecommunications infrastructure, citing damage to fibre-optic cables during road construction and other activities as a major challenge to network expansion.
According to him, protecting existing infrastructure and creating a stable policy environment are essential to encouraging operators to commit more resources to the sector.
Adebayo stressed the need to extend reliable connectivity beyond major urban centres, noting that additional investment would help bridge coverage and access gaps in underserved communities.
He added that the growing demand for digital services and the adoption of artificial intelligence by businesses would increase the need for skilled manpower in the telecommunications industry.
According to him, “investment is needed to extend reliable connectivity beyond major urban centres and close coverage and access gaps.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Afolabi Salisu, disclosed that the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Government Bill had reached its third reading and could be passed before the end of the year.
He said the legislation was designed to establish a legal framework for digital transactions and encourage government agencies to digitise their operations.
Salisu also highlighted plans to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network to improve internet connectivity nationwide, including in areas where commercial returns may be limited.
The proposed network is expected to support broader access to digital services and strengthen the infrastructure required for Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.