President Bola Tinubu has endorsed the introduction of Airtel Nigeria's Open Network campaign, highlighting the move as a progressive stride toward enhanced accountability, consumer defense, and superior telecommunications delivery throughout Nigeria.
The service framework, officially introduced in Lagos on Friday, October 30, 2026, during an assembly featuring the Executive Vice Chairman of the [ Nigerian Communications Commission ](https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more- news/908803-ncc-lunches-zero-rated-education-scheme-for-five-million- students.html) (NCC), Aminu Maida, permits mobile subscribers to track localized network updates and log connectivity challenges directly with the service provider.
How does the administration view this telecom development?
According to the presidency, the scheme aligns seamlessly with ongoing governmental policies aimed at stimulating private capital inflows, broadening digital architecture, and guaranteeing that citizens enjoy dependable connectivity options. The federal government noted that growing transparency within the sector—such as NCC-backed coverage mapping, performance metrics, and satisfaction evaluations—empowers consumers to make informed choices and hold service providers responsible.
Furthermore, the Nigerian leader referenced the administration's recent Zero- Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative. Spearheaded through the NCC alongside the Federal Ministry of Education and sector operators, this program grants eligible students up to 100MB of complimentary daily internet data to visit certified learning sites, thereby expanding digital inclusion for young scholars.
What are the background details of telecom investments in Nigeria?
Recalling a previous engagement with Bharti Airtel Founder and Chairman Sunil Mittal at the State House in Abuja in February 2025, the president reiterated his administration's dedication to building a business-friendly climate for technology investors, reinforcing regulatory structures, and securing vital digital assets.
Airtel Nigeria has steadily scaled up its infrastructure footprint, expanding its active operational sites from approximately 15,000 units two years prior to exceeding 17,000 nationwide. This expansion encompasses over 1,050 newly deployed network locations integrated throughout the 2025/2026 financial cycle, featuring 657 dedicated 5G base stations.
Emphasizing the importance of sustained capital input, the presidency stated that consistent funding is indispensable for driving broadband penetration, elevating network throughput, and bolstering commercial enterprises, scholastic institutions, and general economic activities nationwide. The president lauded the NCC under Dr. Maida for robust regulatory enforcement and urged industry operators to prioritize underserved populations while guaranteeing responsive customer support.
Ultimately, the administration stressed that technological innovation must translate directly into tangible service reliability for everyday citizens who rely on digital tools for their livelihoods, corporate ventures, and routine communication.