The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to introduce a groundbreaking Digital Connectivity Index, a national scorecard designed to assess and rank all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) based on their broadband readiness and digital infrastructure performance.
The initiative, unveiled on Wednesday by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, forms part of the Commission’s broader agenda to promote investment, transparency, and policy harmonisation within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Speaking at a Business Roundtable on Improving Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Safeguarding Critical National Infrastructure in Abuja, Maida said the index would serve as a benchmark to measure each state’s progress in advancing the digital economy. The event gathered governors, policymakers, telecom operators, investors, and development partners to explore ways to expand broadband access and protect vital telecom assets.
“The Digital Connectivity Index will provide a transparent, state-by-state assessment of how ready and competitive each state is in the digital economy,” Maida stated. “It will drive accountability, attract investment, and encourage the adoption of pro-investment policies that boost connectivity and empower citizens.”
The new index comes amid growing concern over unequal internet access across Nigeria, with major cities enjoying advanced networks while rural communities remain largely disconnected. This gap has hindered progress in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and commerce.
The ranking will consider several key indicators, including:
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Adoption of Right-of-Way (RoW) waivers;
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Measures to protect telecom infrastructure;
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Efficiency in regulatory approvals;
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Coordination between state agencies and operators; and
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Efforts to ensure energy resilience for network sites.
According to Maida, states that have implemented zero or reduced RoW fees, streamlined permitting procedures, and fostered public-private partnerships for broadband development are likely to score higher. Conversely, those with inconsistent or restrictive policies may fall behind.
“This is more than a report card—it’s a roadmap,” Maida emphasised. “States that create an enabling environment will attract more investors, expand fibre coverage, and unlock opportunities for their citizens. Those that don’t will be left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation.”
The Digital Connectivity Index will complement the upcoming Ease of Doing Business Portal, another NCC initiative designed to serve as a one-stop resource for operators and investors seeking information on broadband licensing, RoW applications, and regulatory processes across all states.
“Policy alignment is critical,” Maida added. “Where states have waived RoW charges and prioritised infrastructure protection, operators are investing confidently. This proves that sound policy decisions directly influence investment and service quality.”
The first edition of the Digital Connectivity Index is scheduled for release later this year, with annual updates to monitor progress and spotlight areas needing improvement.
As of August 2025, Nigeria’s broadband penetration stood at 48.81%, with more than 140 million internet users nationwide. The ICT and telecom sector remains one of the strongest contributors to the country’s GDP, reinforcing the urgent need to strengthen broadband infrastructure and digital inclusion across all regions.
The initiative arrives at a time when digital demand is rising sharply, yet many rural areas remain underserved due to infrastructure gaps, high deployment costs, and inconsistent state-level policies. The NCC hopes the new index will drive competition among states to improve digital access, ultimately propelling Nigeria toward a more connected and inclusive future.
