The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has warned that states with hostile policies toward telecom operations risk being left behind in Nigeria’s fast-moving digital economy.
Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of ALTON, issued the caution at the weekend while speaking on the sidelines of the unveiling of Nigeria’s first Digital Museum, an initiative spearheaded by IHS Towers to preserve the nation’s history and cultural heritage.
Adebayo averred that ongoing investments in network optimisation, fibre expansion, and site upgrades are transforming the sector, but such progress can only thrive where state governments create enabling environments.
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“The digital train is moving very fast. States that create hostile conditions for telecom operations risk being left behind. We will not continue to solicit endlessly for cooperation. Where deployment is unwelcome, investments will move to more supportive neighbouring states, and citizens of unfriendly states will inevitably suffer limited connectivity,” Adebayo said.
The ALTON chairman noted that the industry is witnessing its highest wave of investments since before the COVID-19 pandemic, with members upgrading existing sites, migrating from old radio links to high-speed fibre, and improving security measures to safeguard critical infrastructure.
Tower Companies (TowerCos) are deploying tracking technology on batteries and generators to curb theft and vandalism, he added, cautioning that, “We strongly advise the public to desist from buying equipment suspected to have been stolen from telecom sites.”
On governance, Adebayo expressed optimism about the inauguration of the new Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) board chaired by Mr. Idris Olorunimbe, and praised the leadership of executive vice chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida. He said the combination of the new board and existing management would place the industry firmly on the path to sustainability.
He also welcomed the recent rebranding of 9Mobile to T2, describing it as a major milestone for the sector. “This rebranding enhances investor confidence and underscores the value of collaboration. It assures the public that there are good times ahead for our industry,” he said.
Adebayo further lauded the federal government’s tax and fiscal reforms, especially the work of the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy, which aims to streamline over 56 separate levies faced by operators. He said the reforms, set to take effect from January 2026, would reduce the burden of multiple taxation and boost entrepreneurship and investment.
“The transformation we are witnessing in our sector has not been experienced in recent years. With the support of the public in protecting critical infrastructure and the cooperation of all stakeholders, there is no stopping Nigeria’s telecommunications sector as a driver of national economic stability and growth,” he noted.
