Hostile Nigerian States to Face Connectivity Limits – ALTON

The Association of Licenced Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has issued a strong warning to state governments that create hostile environments for telecom operators, stating that such regions risk being excluded from future advancements in telecommunications and digital connectivity.

ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, made this known over the weekend during a public event, highlighting that unfavourable working conditions—including excessive levies and right-of-way restrictions—continue to hamper telecom infrastructure development across parts of the country.

“States that create hostile conditions for telecom operations risk being left behind. Where deployment is unwelcome, investments will shift to more supportive neighbouring states, and citizens of such unfriendly regions will suffer from poor or limited connectivity,” Adebayo said.

He revealed that telecom operators currently contend with up to 56 different levies imposed by subnational governments. However, with the signing of tax reform bills into law, he expressed optimism that the burden would be significantly reduced starting January 2026.

Adebayo also issued a stern message to state authorities, stating: “We will not continue to solicit endlessly for cooperation.”

He urged governments at all levels to foster enabling environments that encourage investment and growth in the telecom sector, warning that failure to do so would result in digital exclusion and economic setbacks for affected states.