The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has intensified efforts to accelerate broadband infrastructure development by engaging key industry stakeholders on a cost-based pricing framework for shared telecommunications duct infrastructure under Nigeria’s proposed Dig-Once Policy.
At the Second Stakeholders’ Forum held in Abuja on Wednesday, the Commission presented findings from a consultancy study aimed at developing a transparent, equitable, and economically sustainable pricing mechanism for shared duct access. The forum also provided an opportunity for industry players to review and validate the proposed pricing methodology, assumptions, and recommendations.
Speaking at the event, the NCC’s Head of Competition and Tariff, Mrs. Omotayo Mohammed, said the Commission commissioned Silicon Base Limited in 2023 to conduct the study after identifying a critical gap in the implementation framework for the Dig-Once Policy.
According to her, although the policy remains in draft form, its success will largely depend on establishing a clear, transparent, and cost-based pricing model for shared underground duct infrastructure.
“The study seeks to provide a structured and cost-based framework that guarantees equitable access while supporting sustainable infrastructure development across the telecommunications sector,” Mohammed said.
She explained that the Dig-Once initiative is designed to lower the cost and complexity of broadband network deployment by encouraging coordinated civil works and the shared use of underground duct infrastructure. However, she noted that without a well-defined pricing mechanism, the policy’s objectives of efficiency, fairness, and investment protection may not be fully realised.
Mohammed recalled that the First Stakeholders’ Forum generated valuable industry feedback, which helped shape the direction of the consultancy study.
She added that the current stage of the process allows stakeholders to critically examine the consultant’s findings, pricing models, and assumptions to ensure the final framework is practical and aligned with the realities of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
“We expect your feedback to help refine the proposed framework, ensuring that it is practical, implementable, and reflective of the realities within the Nigerian telecommunications landscape,” she stated.
Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to an inclusive and transparent regulatory process, Mohammed said the NCC aims to develop a pricing structure that balances the interests of infrastructure providers, access seekers, and consumers while encouraging continued investment in broadband infrastructure.
The Second Stakeholders’ Forum marks another significant milestone in the development of a fair, transparent, and sustainable pricing framework for shared telecommunications duct infrastructure in Nigeria.
The Dig-Once initiative seeks to minimise the cost, duplication, and disruption associated with network deployment by ensuring that whenever roads or public rights-of-way are excavated for infrastructure projects, telecommunications ducts are installed simultaneously. The approach is expected to reduce repeated road excavations, improve deployment efficiency, and accelerate broadband expansion across the country.
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