The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has attributed its lower-than-expected revenue in 2024 to the inability to auction 5G spectrum licenses, citing market conditions and lack of willing buyers.
During its 2025 budget defense before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Communications, NCC officials revealed that two major telecom operators already have underutilized 5G spectrum, while a third potential buyer opted to focus on expanding its market instead.
Despite a 50% telecom tariff increase, the NCC does not anticipate significant revenue growth from spectrum sales this year. However, it expects over $1 billion in future revenue from emerging technologies like 6G.
For 2025, the commission has projected ₦272.4 billion ($294 million) in revenue, with the bulk coming from operating levies and spectrum fees. In 2024, the NCC generated ₦195.8 billion ($211.5 million)—far below its ₦292.3 billion target—due to its failure to sell a 5G spectrum slot.
Lawmakers pledged to scrutinize the commission’s operations and improve its performance in the coming year.
