The recent events surrounding the telecommunications industry in Nigeria have raised eyebrows and sparked concerns among subscribers. With internet speeds plummeting to unacceptable levels, suspicions have been raised about possible government interference to hinder the #EndBadGovernance protests. The timing of the slowdown in internet speeds, coinciding with the planned protests, has led many to question the motives behind such actions.
The government has denied any involvement in tampering with the networks, citing technical issues and infrastructure challenges as the main reasons for the decline in services. However, the sudden deactivation of nearly 20 million subscriber lines due to the failure to link their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to their SIM cards has added fuel to the fire. The subsequent reconnection of these lines by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) only added to the confusion and suspicion among subscribers.
While the government’s efforts to combat terrorism and improve security through the NIN-SIM linkage policy are commendable, the implementation has been marred by challenges and delays. Many subscribers are still struggling to comply with the requirements, leading to disruptions in services and frustrations among the affected individuals.
The telecommunications companies themselves are not without their own set of problems. Crippling inflation, currency volatility, and economic challenges have put a strain on their operations, leading to losses and financial difficulties. Companies like 9mobile, which was on the brink of collapse, have received a lifeline from new investors, signaling a potential turnaround in their fortunes.
Airtel Africa Plc and MTN Nigeria, two of the largest players in the industry, have also faced their share of challenges. While Airtel reported revenue growth in the first quarter of 2024, MTN Nigeria suffered significant losses due to currency devaluation and financial obligations in dollars. The impact of these losses has been felt by both the companies and their subscribers, highlighting the interconnected nature of the telecommunications industry in Nigeria.
As subscribers grapple with slow internet speeds, service disruptions, and financial uncertainties, the future of the telecommunications sector in Nigeria remains uncertain. The need for improved infrastructure, regulatory clarity, and investor confidence is more pressing than ever. Only time will tell if the industry can overcome these challenges and provide reliable and affordable services to the Nigerian population.