The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to accelerating the expansion of 5G technology and boosting revenue generation within the telecommunications sector.
In a statement delivered during the budget defence before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Telecommunications in Abuja, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, highlighted the current status of the 5G spectrum in Nigeria. While the two largest telecom operators have secured the 5G spectrum, they have yet to fully utilise it. The third operator has opted to focus on expanding its 4G network, delaying the sale of the remaining 5G spectrum.
Despite these challenges, Maida expressed confidence in the future of spectrum sales, stating that the development of Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure will help enhance digital connectivity and contribute to broader economic growth.

While the 5G spectrum auction has faced setbacks, the NCC reported a strong financial performance for 2024, generating N195.8 billion in total revenue, with N111 billion remitted to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF). However, Maida acknowledged that the Commission missed its target of N292.3 billion largely due to the unsold 5G spectrum slot. He explained that the inability to sell the spectrum significantly impacted revenue from spectrum fees, which are a major source of funds for the NCC.
Mr. Yakubu Gontor, the NCC’s Director of Financial Services, explained that market conditions were a key factor in the auction’s failure. Despite two large operators holding 5G spectrum, they are not fully utilising it, and the third operator showed reluctance to invest in the technology at this time. Additionally, 9 Mobile, the operator expected to purchase the spectrum, is undergoing restructuring, leaving only one potential buyer for the remaining slot.
Looking ahead, the NCC does not expect a surge in revenue from spectrum sales in 2025, particularly after the 50% telecom tariff hike. However, Gontor suggested that the introduction of 6G technology could generate over $1 billion in revenue for the government, as spectrum sales follow a 10-year cycle. Despite these setbacks, the NCC’s projections for 2025 include total revenue of N272.433 billion, with N205.7 billion expected from operating levies and N49.784 billion from spectrum fees.
Senator Aliyu Ikrah Bilbis, Co-Chairman of the Committee, expressed satisfaction with the NCC’s 2024 budget performance and its proposed estimates for 2025. He also highlighted the critical role of the telecommunications sector, which contributes approximately 16% to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Bilbis stressed the importance of equipping the NCC with the necessary financial and operational resources to enhance its regulatory functions and improve service delivery.