By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed Airtel Nigeria’s Open Network initiative, launched in Lagos, to promote transparency, protect consumers and improve telecommunications services nationwide. The President praised the company’s investment in digital infrastructure, urging telecom operators to expand network coverage and improve service delivery across Nigeria.
Airtel Open Network Promotes Transparency
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the initiative promotes greater transparency in telecommunications.
Launched in Lagos, the platform allows subscribers to access information about network developments in their communities. Additionally, customers can report service challenges directly to Airtel.
The launch attracted the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida.
President Tinubu described the initiative as consistent with his administration’s commitment to private-sector investment. He also emphasised the need to expand digital infrastructure and improve telecommunications services.
Tinubu Backs Greater Consumer Protection
Furthermore, the President welcomed the growing focus on transparency across Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
He highlighted the NCC’s public network coverage maps, performance reports and consumer satisfaction surveys. These measures help subscribers understand available services and hold operators accountable.
According to the statement, greater transparency will strengthen consumer confidence. It will also encourage operators to improve service quality.
FG Introduces Free Data for Educational Platforms
The President also highlighted the Federal Government’s Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative.
The NCC implements the programme alongside the Federal Ministry of Education and telecommunications operators.
Under the initiative, eligible students can access up to 100MB of free daily data. The data supports access to approved educational websites and learning resources.
Consequently, the programme aims to expand digital learning opportunities, particularly among young Nigerians.
Airtel Expands Telecommunications Infrastructure
The statement also recalled President Tinubu’s meeting with Bharti Airtel Founder and Chairman, Sunil Bharti Mittal.
The meeting took place at the State House in Abuja in February 2025.
During the meeting, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to creating a favourable investment environment. He also promised stronger regulations and improved protection for critical digital infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Airtel Nigeria has continued expanding its telecommunications network across the country.
Its infrastructure has grown from approximately 15,000 sites two years ago to more than 17,000 nationwide.
The expansion includes over 1,050 additional network sites during the company’s 2025/26 financial year. These additions include 657 5G sites.
The President stressed that sustained infrastructure investment remains essential to Nigeria’s digital development.
He noted that stronger telecommunications infrastructure would expand broadband access and improve network capacity. It would also support businesses, education and economic opportunities.
Tinubu Commends NCC’s Regulatory Efforts
President Tinubu commended the NCC under Dr Aminu Maida’s leadership. He praised the commission’s efforts to strengthen regulation, promote transparency and protect telecommunications consumers.
He also urged telecom operators to sustain investments in network expansion. In particular, he called for improved services in underserved communities.
Additionally, the President stressed the importance of addressing customer complaints promptly.
President Urges Operators to Improve Service Delivery
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting responsible investment and innovation.
However, he emphasised that consumer interests must remain central to telecommunications development.
He urged operators to translate infrastructure investments into better network coverage. He also called for fewer service disruptions and more responsive customer support.
The President maintained that improved telecommunications services remain essential to Nigeria’s digital growth and economic development.
