In a bid to assess and enhance broadband readiness and digital competitiveness across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) developed a strategic framework–the Nigeria Digital Connectivity Index (NDCI).
This NDCI, which was launched in October 2025, serves as a tool to guide policymakers, investors, and telecom operators in understanding the key enablers and barriers to broadband expansion, fostering inclusive digital transformation, and driving Nigeria’s digital economy. The NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida had described the framework as “a practical guide for states to position themselves in Nigeria’s digital economy”.
Key Highlights of the NDCI
The NDCI aims to benchmark states on their digital readiness, identify barriers to connectivity, encourage reforms, facilitate evidence-based decision-making, and attract investment by highlighting digitally progressive regions.
The Nigeria Digital Connectivity Index (NDCI) is based on four key pillars, each weighted based on its impact on broadband growth:
- Policy & Regulatory Environment
- Investment & Business Environment
- Broadband Infrastructure & Deployment
- Digital Adoption & Inclusion
Breakdown Of Each Pillars
Pillar one which is the Policy & Regulatory Environment consists of Policy Effectiveness and implementation; Regulatory Process Efficiency; Support for Emerging Technology; and State-Led Initiative. Under this pillar, States that streamline their regulatory frameworks will attract more investments and improve broadband rollout timelines.
The second Pillar–Investment & Business Environment comprises the Right of Way (RoW) Harmonisation; Site Build & Co-location Friendliness; Fiscal Environment; and Public Private Partnership (PPP) & Investment Promotion. This pillar is expected to tackle the High RoW fees, excessive bureaucracy, and multiple taxation. It also highlights state policies that either facilitate or hinder telecom investments.
Pillar three–Broadband Infrastructure & Deployment measures how well states have enabled broadband deployment, including both fibre-optic/satellite infrastructure and mobile network expansion. It consists of Terrestrial Fibre Density; Mobile Infrastructure Density; Critical Infrastructure Access; and Infrastructure Resilience & Security.
The last pillar which is Digital Adoption & Inclusion is made up of Broadband Affordability; Digital Literacy; E-Government & Digital Public Services; Digital & Financial Inclusion; and Local Content. Adoption depends on affordability, digital skills, and relevant content/services.
This framework is in line with the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, which focuses on 70% broadband penetration and coverage for 90% of the population. With this initiative, barriers to connectivity will be identified, investment will be attracted and digitally progressive regions will be highlighted.
