President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed Airtel Nigeria’s newly launched Open Network initiative, saying it will help improve transparency, strengthen consumer protection and deliver better telecommunications services to millions of Nigerians.
The President said the initiative gives subscribers the opportunity to monitor network improvements in their locations and report service challenges directly to the company, making operators more accountable to customers.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the development as another positive step towards building a stronger digital economy driven by private sector investment and innovation.
He noted that access to reliable telephone and internet services has become essential for businesses, students, families and government services, stressing that Nigerians deserve quality network services wherever they live.
The President also praised the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for introducing public network coverage maps, performance reports and consumer satisfaction surveys, saying such measures allow subscribers to know what to expect from service providers and encourage healthy competition in the telecom industry.
Tinubu recalled that his administration recently introduced the Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative through the NCC and the Federal Ministry of Education, in partnership with telecommunications operators.
Under the programme, eligible students can receive up to 100MB of free data daily to access approved educational websites and learning materials, a move aimed at expanding digital learning opportunities for young Nigerians.
The President also recalled his 2025 meeting with Bharti Airtel Chairman, Sunil Bharti Mittal, where he assured investors of his administration’s commitment to creating a favourable business environment, strengthening regulation and protecting critical digital infrastructure.
He commended Airtel Nigeria for expanding its network from about 15,000 sites to more than 17,000 nationwide, including the addition of over 1,050 new sites during the 2025/2026 financial year, with 657 dedicated to 5G services.
Tinubu said sustained investment in telecommunications infrastructure is vital to expanding broadband access, supporting businesses, improving education and creating more economic opportunities across the country.
He urged telecommunications operators to continue expanding their services, especially in underserved communities, while ensuring that customer complaints are addressed promptly.
The President maintained that the true value of investments in the telecommunications sector should be reflected in better network coverage, fewer service interruptions and improved customer service for Nigerians, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for responsible investment and digital innovation.