ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, made the remarks in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Saturday.

Under the directive, banks, fintechs and other payment service providers are required to store payment transaction data generated in Nigeria on local servers from January 1, 2027. The policy forms part of broader efforts by the Central Bank of Nigeria to strengthen oversight of the country’s rapidly expanding digital payments ecosystem.

Adebayo said local data hosting would allow financial institutions to pay for data infrastructure services in naira rather than foreign currencies, reducing their vulnerability to exchange rate fluctuations.

“Organisations hosting data locally would pay in local currency rather than foreign exchange. This would help reduce exposure to exchange rate pressures and lower long-term operating costs,” he said.

He added that the benefits of local hosting extend beyond cost savings, describing it as an important component of national data sovereignty.

According to him, countries should take responsibility for the collection, management, storage and protection of their data rather than relying on foreign jurisdictions.

“We cannot continue to outsource that to other jurisdictions. The more we host our data locally, the better for us,” Adebayo said.

He also noted that storing data abroad can create operational inefficiencies, as transactions must be routed through foreign servers before returning to Nigeria.

“For every transaction involving data hosted outside our shores, communication has to take place from your location to the host and back. It increases latency and also increases the cost of data retrieval,” he said.

On cybersecurity, Adebayo argued that local control of data provides stronger protection than relying on external service providers.

“No one can protect your house better than yourself. You have more at stake in terms of security and safety than somebody else hosting your data,” he said.

Addressing concerns about Nigeria’s readiness for the transition, Adebayo said the country already possesses sufficient data centre capacity to support the directive.

He pointed to the presence of several Tier III data centres in Nigeria, noting that some already host data for international clients.

“I’m happy to say that we have a lot of data centres owned and managed by Nigerians that are hosting data from other jurisdictions. If people overseas can host their data here, why can’t we host our own data here?” he said.

According to him, capacity rather than the number of facilities is the key consideration, adding that Nigeria’s existing infrastructure is capable of supporting local data hosting requirements.

The post CBN Local Hosting Policy to Ease FX Pressure for Banks, Fintechs — ALTON appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The clarification was provided by ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo during an interview on Arise Television.

According to Adebayo, the ongoing review by the Nigerian Communications Commission is aimed at determining fair pricing for calls exchanged between telecom operators, particularly when calls originate on one network and terminate on another.

He stressed that there are currently no discussions about increasing tariffs paid by consumers.

“There are no conversations around tariff review at this time, and there are no discussions around upward review of tariffs for our consumers,” Adebayo said.

He explained that the NCC’s review seeks to establish an appropriate wholesale rate that reflects the cost and efficiency of operating telecommunications networks while ensuring a healthy and sustainable industry.

The exercise covers interconnection charges, which are payments made by one operator to another when calls are carried across different networks.

Adebayo said the review also includes international calls that originate outside Nigeria and terminate on local networks, with regulators assessing what constitutes fair pricing for those transactions.

The clarification follows earlier reports suggesting that the NCC was considering a broader tariff review. Industry stakeholders, however, have maintained that the current process relates solely to wholesale pricing mechanisms and does not involve retail tariffs charged to subscribers.

The NCC regularly reviews interconnection and termination rates as part of its responsibility to maintain fair competition and sustainability within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

The post No telecom tariff increase under consideration, says ALTON appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has called for the urgent resolution of the regulatory dispute disrupting Nigeria’s airtime credit market, cautioning that the standoff could undermine consumer welfare, investor confidence, and the stability of the telecom sector.

ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, made the appeal amid mounting concerns over persistent service disruptions despite existing court orders intended to preserve operations.

Adebayo described the situation as more than a routine regulatory disagreement, noting that it reflects deeper issues around institutional coordination and compliance with judicial directives. He urged regulators, telecom operators, and the Federal Government to work together to restore clarity and stability in the market.

“What is happening in the airtime credit space goes beyond a dispute between agencies; it is a reflection of how well the systems that support business confidence are functioning,” he said.

He stressed that while court orders remain valid and operators hold legitimate licences, consumers continue to experience interruptions—highlighting the urgency of resolving the impasse.

ALTON noted that Nigeria’s airtime credit ecosystem—estimated to be worth between N300 billion and N400 billion annually—serves as a vital informal credit system. Millions of Nigerians, particularly small traders, artisans, and low-income earners, depend on airtime advances to manage daily financial needs in the absence of accessible formal credit.

The association warned that prolonged uncertainty could negatively impact not only telecom services but also broader economic activities tied to the sector.

The crisis stems from a jurisdictional conflict between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over oversight of airtime credit services and Value Added Service (VAS) providers.

ALTON insists that the NCC, under the Nigerian Communications Act, has clear statutory authority over telecom operations, including VAS providers. It warned that overlapping regulatory claims have created uncertainty and disrupted business activities.

The association added that it had flagged potential risks to the NCC as early as August 2025, cautioning that inconsistencies arising from FCCPC regulations and inter-agency arrangements could destabilise the sector.

ALTON further noted that interim injunctions issued by Federal High Courts in Lagos and Abuja had restrained interference in the operations of licensed VAS providers. However, operators such as Nairtime Nigeria Limited and members of the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPA) are still experiencing disruptions.

The association warned that continued interference despite court rulings raises serious concerns about regulatory coordination and adherence to the rule of law.

In response, the FCCPC denied claims that it had banned airtime borrowing and data advance services. Instead, it attributed the temporary suspension to non-compliance by some service providers.

According to the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, operators were required to align their services with Nigerian law under a new regulatory framework introduced in July 2025.

He said a 90-day compliance window was provided to allow operators to regularise their operations, but some providers failed to take advantage of the grace period, particularly within the telecom sector.

The dispute has triggered widespread uncertainty across the telecom ecosystem, with major operators such as Airtel Nigeria and MTN Nigeria Communications Plc previously announcing temporary suspensions of airtime and data credit services in response to regulatory directives.

Industry stakeholders warn that unless swiftly addressed, the standoff could erode confidence in Nigeria’s regulatory environment and disrupt a market that plays a crucial role in supporting everyday financial transactions for millions of Nigerians.

The post ALTON Raises Alarm Over Airtime Credit Dispute, Warns of Threat to N400bn Market appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The blockade, linked to an ongoing dispute involving the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA), threatens critical national services including banking, emergency communications, and security operations.

While ALTON clarified it does not intervene in member disputes, the association called for immediate resolution, warning that telecom infrastructure is designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under Nigerian law and any disruption could have serious national security implications.

ALTON urged relevant stakeholders, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigerian Communications Commission, to intervene before the crisis spirals into a nationwide communications blackout. The group stressed that ongoing obstruction to fuel access risks destabilizing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and undermining essential services.

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In a significant policy shift, Starlink, Elon Musk’s internet company, has temporarily suspended its recent subscription price increase in Nigeria. The move comes in response to pressure from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which had earlier criticized the decision, deeming it a violation of regulatory requirements.

Initially announced at the end of September, the price hike nearly doubled the monthly subscription from N38,000 to N75,000, while new user hardware costs rose from N440,000 to N590,000.

Starlink justified the increase by citing “excessive inflation” impacting its operational costs in Nigeria.

However, the NCC, invoking Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, warned that Starlink’s unilateral price hike contravened its license conditions on tariffs.

Dr. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, subsequently revealed that the commission had initiated pre-enforcement actions against Starlink.

In a message to Nigerian customers, Starlink expressed that while the price hike was meant to sustain reliable service amid inflation, it had now been paused to comply with ongoing regulatory challenges.

“If you’ve already been charged at the higher rate, a one-time credit will be applied to your account to cover the difference,” the company assured customers, adding that they remain free to cancel service at any time.

Starlink further urged regulatory support, noting that without it, continued service delivery could be jeopardized.

The price increase had sparked widespread debate within Nigeria’s telecom sector, where domestic operators have long called for a tariff review.

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) argue that, despite high inflation, telecom operators are restricted from adjusting their rates, creating an unsustainable business environment.

As the debate continues, Starlink’s response highlights a balancing act between regulatory compliance and sustainable pricing, underscoring the challenges foreign operators may face in Nigeria’s tightly regulated telecom sector.

The post Starlink Suspends Subscription Price Hike Amid Pressure from Nigerian Regulator appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced steps to tap into the 6GHz spectrum, aiming to boost internet speed and address growing demand for high-speed connectivity across the country.

This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, during a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies held in Lagos on Thursday.

Maida, represented by the Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Abraham Oshadami, highlighted the need for the upgrade as the existing 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands face capacity limitations.

“The deployment of the 6GHz spectrum has become necessary to enhance data rates and transmission speeds,” Maida said.

He added that Nigeria would join other nations already utilizing the 6GHz band, particularly for Wi-Fi 6 applications, which offer higher data throughput and lower latency.

The 6GHz spectrum, spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, is expected to significantly increase the available bandwidth, crucial for supporting the demand for high-speed internet and emerging technologies.

Maida noted that Wi-Fi remains essential for distributing broadband connectivity in homes, businesses, and public spaces.

Similarly, Atiku Lawal, Head of Spectrum Administration at NCC, emphasized the importance of opening the 6GHz spectrum, citing that over 70 countries have already moved to adopt it for unlicensed Wi-Fi use.

Lawal explained that this move would support the implementation of Wi-Fi 6, which will accommodate advanced use cases such as high-definition video and extended reality (XR).

“The NCC’s decision will revolutionize broadband connectivity in Nigeria, offering faster, more reliable internet services and relieving capacity constraints on existing networks,” Lawal remarked.

The initiative has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, with the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, urging the federal government to support telecom operators in upgrading their infrastructure to utilize the new spectrum.

As mobile data usage continues to rise globally, the 6GHz spectrum is seen as key to unlocking faster speeds and enabling 5G advancements, positioning Nigeria for future digital transformation.

The post NCC Plans to Harness 6GHz Spectrum for Faster Internet in Nigeria appeared first on Tech Digest News.

MTNNG: Telecom Industry Warns of Industry Collapse

TECH DIGEST – The Nigerian telecommunications sector is facing a crisis, according to industry leaders. Rising inflation, forex devaluation, and unsustainable service tariffs are pushing the industry to the brink of stagnation.

MTN Nigeria CEO, Karl Toriola, warned of the sector’s precarious position at a recent telecom investment forum. He emphasized the need for urgent government intervention and price adjustments to prevent industry collapse.

Toriola and Airtel Nigeria CEO, Carl Cruz, both highlighted the escalating costs of infrastructure maintenance and operations. They echoed the concerns of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON),which has called for tariff increases to ensure industry sustainability.

Despite the industry’s plea for tariff adjustments, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy have yet to respond, citing concerns about consumer impact and potential barriers to expanding access.

The telecommunications industry’s financial health is seen as crucial for Nigeria’s overall economic development. The sector’s ability to invest in infrastructure and drive innovation is directly impacted by its profitability.

The post MTNNG: Telecom Industry Warns of Industry Collapse appeared first on Tech Digest News.

Telecommunications companies in Nigeria, including Glo, MTN, Airtel, and 9Mobile, are urging the federal government to facilitate discussions on pricing adjustments within the industry.

In a joint statement by the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), the telcos emphasized that the current pricing mechanism is not aligned with economic realities.

According to Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, and Mr. Tony Emoekpere, President of ATCON, the telecommunications giants are facing sustainability challenges due to their reluctance to review prices over the past 11 years.

They attribute this stagnation to regulatory constraints, despite economic hardships.

The telcos argue that, as a fully liberalized and deregulated sector, the current price controls threaten both industry sustainability and investor confidence.

They emphasize the need for a dialogue with government stakeholders to establish a pricing framework that balances consumer affordability with operator viability.

Additionally, the telcos expressed concerns about security challenges affecting service productivity.

They called for urgent government action to safeguard telecom infrastructure from vandalism and sabotage, emphasizing its crucial role in national security and socioeconomic growth.

As the industry seeks substantial investments in network expansion, maintenance, and technology upgrades, the call for tariff adjustments underscores the complex landscape of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector amid economic uncertainties and security threats

The post Telcos Push for Tariff Increase Amid Economic Hardships appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria are once again urging for an immediate review of the existing pricing structure within the industry.

The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), representing the MNOs, asserts that the current pricing system is no longer viable.

During the Nigerian Telecommunications Indigenous Content Expo (NTICE 2023) held in Lagos and organized by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Engineer Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, highlighted that the industry’s difficulties are exacerbated by regulatory interventions.

It’s worth noting that ALTON had previously requested a 40% increase in call, SMS, and data costs from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) last year.

“The present pricing structure in the industry is unsustainable.

“Our services are essentially being offered at a loss.

“While this is a challenging decision, allowing market forces to dictate pricing seems essential,” Adebayo commented.

The post MNOs Seek SMS, Data, Call Price Review appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – The telecommunications landscape is bracing for possible adjustments in service costs due to mounting energy expenses.

The cost of fueling communication networks is projected to surge to N38 billion in August, prompted by a spike in diesel prices to N950 per liter.

Recent reports from oil marketers indicate that the cost of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) will escalate to a range of N900 to N950 due to ongoing foreign exchange challenges and the recent imposition of a 7.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on the commodity.

Before the introduction of VAT on diesel, it was sold at N650 per liter, according to the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria.

Benneth Korie, President of NOGASA, voiced concerns over the diesel price surge, stating, “Diesel prices are now approaching N900 to N950 per liter, depending on the source.

This increase is attributed to the scarcity of dollars. It’s imperative for authorities to address this issue, as it poses potential negative impacts.

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“The telecom industry, reliant on numerous base stations, is a significant diesel consumer in the nation, utilizing approximately 40 million liters per month to power its communication sites.

“At the close of 2022, the Nigerian Communications Commission reported 127,294 base stations across Nigeria. Industry experts reveal that each station operates two diesel-powered generators.

“The diesel price rise to N900–N950 per liter implies that operational expenses for operators will surge to between N36 billion and N38 billion monthly, which may influence telecom service costs.”

Operators have repeatedly expressed concerns about diesel’s high cost affecting their services.In the recent ‘State of the Industry’ report, the Nigerian Communications Commission unveiled a 21.64 percent surge in telecom operators’ operational costs in 2022, reaching N2.09 trillion from N1.72 trillion in 2021.

In 2022, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria requested a tariff increase from the NCC due to a 40 percent rise in business expenses. Energy costs played a pivotal role, contributing to a 35 percent growth in operating expenses.

By April 2023, Gbolahan Awonuga, Head of Operations at ÀLTON, affirmed that the rising diesel expenses were affecting telecom operations.

He emphasized, “Power is a critical factor that influences every aspect. While other economic factors have driven up costs, telecom tariffs remain unchanged.

“This creates challenges as revenue drops and input prices shift, yet tariffs remain static.

“Telecom experts continue to voice concerns that soaring input costs jeopardize the sector’s sustainability.”

Gbenga Adebayo, President of ALTON, explained, “To ensure the viability of our industry, prices must reflect production costs. It’s logical that we revise rates after consulting stakeholders, considering the current input costs.”

Adebayo emphasized the link between input cost fluctuations and price adjustments, underscoring the need for sustainable pricing in line with production realities.

He noted that regulators are being kept informed of essential details to facilitate informed decisions.

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