Government Mandates Improved Telecom Service Quality by August 2025 – Telcos Face Sanctions
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| Government Mandates Improved Telecom Service Quality by August 2025 |
In response to mounting complaints from millions of Nigerians about dropped calls, slow internet, and unreliable network coverage, the Federal Government has issued a strong directive to telecom companies: Improve service quality by August 2025 or face regulatory penalties.
This move comes amid a nationwide network upgrade and growing investment in broadband infrastructure — yet users are still frustrated with frequent network issues.
Why the Government Is Stepping In
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is pushing for urgent reform after receiving:
- Over 1.2 million complaints in Q1 2025 related to service disruptions
- Public outcry over the 50% tariff increase without corresponding service improvements
- Complaints from rural areas still unconnected or under-served
Telcos Given Ultimatum
All major telecom providers — MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile — have been formally warned to:
| Requirement | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Improve call quality | August 31, 2025 |
| Reduce internet downtime | August 31, 2025 |
| Expand coverage to rural areas | Q4 2025 |
| Resolve SIM registration issues | August 2025 |
Risk of Sanctions
The NCC has stated that non-compliant telecoms may face:
- Heavy regulatory fines
- Suspension or withdrawal of operating licenses
- Public naming and shaming
- Blocked approval for future tariff adjustments or 5G expansion
Note: The NCC has already issued performance benchmarks and is actively monitoring telecom towers, customer complaints, and internet speeds across all 36 states.
What Telcos Are Doing in Response
To meet the deadline:
- MTN Nigeria has accelerated its ₦600 billion infrastructure rollout, including 5G expansion
- Airtel is launching new 4G base stations in underserved areas
- Glo is upgrading its fibre backbone and has restored SIM registration services
- 9mobile is investing in customer service automation and rural outreach
How This Affects You
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Urban Centers | Faster data, more 4G/5G towers |
| Rural Communities | More coverage by Q4 2025 |
| SIM Registration | Faster service, fewer technical delays |
| Voice & Call Services | Better call quality by August 2025 |
Consumers are advised to report persistent network issues directly to NCC via:
www.ncc.gov.ng/contact
This is a critical moment for Nigeria’s telecom industry. The government's intervention reflects the public demand for better value, especially after paying more for mobile services. If telcos meet the deadline, Nigerians will begin to enjoy the real benefits of 5G, fibre optics, and improved broadband.
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