Nigeria’s Upcoming Digital Connectivity Index to Accelerate Broadband Expansion
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to launch a Digital Connectivity Index by the end of 2025, aimed at ranking Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) based on broadband readiness and digital infrastructure performance.
This initiative aligns with the goals of the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025, which targets 70% broadband penetration and 90% population coverage nationwide.
A key driver of this digital transformation is the BRIDGE project — a $1.6 billion initiative supported by the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), European Investment Bank (EIB), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). The project seeks to deploy 90,000 kilometres of new fibre optic cables across Nigeria, significantly strengthening the country’s digital backbone — a vital enabler of economic growth and innovation.
Speaking at a roundtable in Abuja themed “Enhancing Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Protecting National Critical Infrastructure,” Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the new index will promote accountability, attract investment, and motivate states to adopt pro-investment policies.
According to Maida, the index is “more than a performance ranking — it’s a practical guide for states to position themselves in Nigeria’s digital economy.”
The index will assess parameters such as right-of-way fee waivers, infrastructure protection, regulatory efficiency, and coordination between agencies and telecom operators. States adopting investor-friendly frameworks are expected to attract more operators, accelerating broadband rollout and creating new digital opportunities. Conversely, those slow to adapt risk being left behind in an increasingly technology-driven landscape.
By providing a clear and data-backed assessment, the Digital Connectivity Index underscores Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation — driving socio-economic growth through enhanced connectivity and technological advancement.
Africa’s “Invisible Infrastructure” for Economic Growth
At the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit held in Abuja, Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman of MTN Nigeria, described the telecommunications sector as Africa’s “invisible infrastructure” — a critical foundation for trade, innovation, and financial inclusion across the continent.
Speaking at a plenary session titled “Titans on the Move: Africa’s Multinationals,” Ndukwe emphasized that telecoms have become as indispensable as roads and power grids.
“Telecoms is the invisible infrastructure that sustains our economies. It underpins trade, innovation, and financial inclusion across the continent,” he said.
Ndukwe highlighted MTN Nigeria’s remarkable growth, noting its evolution into one of the world’s largest mobile operators by subscriber numbers. He also cited the company’s expansion across Africa as proof that homegrown firms can compete globally.
His remarks reinforced the telecom sector’s central role in economic integration and digital inclusion — and its growing importance in shaping Africa’s future as a connected, knowledge-driven continent.
Career Opportunities at T2 (Formerly 9mobile)
T2, formerly known as 9mobile Nigeria, is inviting applications from qualified candidates as part of its continuing transformation and market revival strategy.
Since its acquisition by Lighthouse Telecoms in 2023, T2 has embarked on a strategic recovery plan to restore growth and competitiveness. The company — originally launched as Etisalat Nigeria in 2008 — is now positioning itself as a forward-looking, innovation-driven player in Nigeria’s telecom market.
T2 is currently recruiting for two positions:
• Specialist, Product Analysis & Design
• Manager, Core Operations
Applicants are expected to hold a First Degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline, possess skills in Network Availability and Capacity Management, and demonstrate strong customer orientation.
T2 offers a supportive and employee-centric culture, emphasizing professional growth, flexibility, and work-life balance. For ambitious professionals seeking to contribute to Nigeria’s telecom renaissance, T2 represents an exciting career destination.
Market Performance Highlights: June 2025 Quarter
Financial results for the June 2025 quarter show mixed outcomes across market capitalizations, with 3,973 listed stocks reporting performance.
• Large-cap stocks recorded a 46% positive result proportion.
• Mid-cap stocks slightly outperformed at 48%.
• Small-cap stocks trailed with 38% positive outcomes.
Among standout performers:
• Bharti Airtel impressed with robust results, consolidating its leadership in the telecom sector.
• Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) emerged as a mid-cap highlight, reflecting dynamism in the capital markets.
• Websol Energy excelled in the small-cap segment, showing notable growth in the electrical equipment space.
• Madhya Bharat Agro Products Ltd. posted strong sales and profit growth, underscoring solid operational performance.
Investors now await fresh updates from Yash Highvoltage Ltd., Elecon Engineering Co. Ltd., and Waaree Renewable Technologies Ltd., expected to release financials on October 10, 2025 — insights that will help gauge broader market trends and sector momentum going into Q4.
