The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has called on Nigeria’s telecommunications sector to prioritize reaching underserved rural communities by leveraging advanced technology. Tijani emphasized the need for telecoms to drive innovation and expand access to telecommunication services, underscoring a gap in Research and Development (R&D) contributions within the sector, noting that no Nigerian telecom company currently has a dedicated R&D center.

In a recent meeting with the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Tijani suggested that an independent review of infrastructure challenges, including right of way policies, unified duct systems, and dig-once policies, is essential. He announced plans to establish two independent think tank groups to address these sectoral issues and invited ALTON’s collaboration in advancing his goals. Addressing the issue of USSD debt, Tijani stressed that banks should not expect these services free of charge, as telecom services incur operational costs.

ALTON’s Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, presented several recommendations for the minister’s consideration, stressing the need to collaborate with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to reassess spectrum pricing. He remarked, “The minister’s engagement with the NCC to set affordable spectrum prices will enhance broadband delivery, which has a positive impact on the local economy.” Adebayo highlighted that studies show high spectrum prices can slow broadband speeds and reduce coverage, and he endorsed flexible spectrum licensing payment options as outlined in the Nigerian National Broadband Plan 2020–2025, which would allow operators to spread payments over the license’s lifetime.

Adebayo also urged a review of 5G backhaul frequency pricing, as the current model imposes prohibitive costs on operators, especially given the wider channels required for 5G services. He noted that reducing these costs would support more feasible 5G rollouts.

To support innovation in the sector, Adebayo proposed establishing a formal regulatory sandbox to enable Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct live tests of new products and services with minimal regulatory restrictions. This approach, he explained, would allow MNOs to collaborate with other industries in controlled environments to develop innovative products, delivery channels, and business models, free from standard bureaucratic hurdles.