NCC Pushes Green Telecoms Drive, Targets Lower Costs and Sustainable Digital Growth
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing green telecommunications in Nigeria, with a focus on reducing costs and promoting environmentally sustainable digital infrastructure.
The Commission said its Green Telecoms Initiative is aimed at aligning the country’s telecom sector with global best practices while delivering significant financial and environmental benefits. It projected that the transition to eco-friendly technologies could cut operational costs by up to 50 percent.
As part of the strategy, the NCC is encouraging telecom operators to shift from carbon-intensive generators to renewable energy solutions. This move, according to the regulator, could reduce operating expenses by between 30 and 50 percent while supporting climate-friendly practices.
Speaking at a recent Green Conference, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, Aminu Maida, said the telecom sector sits at a crucial intersection of connectivity and environmental responsibility. Represented by the Commission’s Head of Projects, Shuaibu Swade, he stressed the need for operators to embrace sustainable solutions.
He noted that while telecommunications remains the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, it must also evolve into a driver of environmental stewardship. He added that the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure presents both opportunities and responsibilities to reduce carbon emissions.
Maida further highlighted ongoing efforts to promote infrastructure sharing among operators, encourage renewable-powered telecom towers, and improve the management of electronic waste generated within the sector.
In addition, the NCC is strengthening Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting standards to boost transparency and accountability across the telecom ecosystem.
The Commission also pointed out that digital technologies can help lower emissions by enabling remote work, digital services, and smart solutions that reduce dependence on travel and other carbon-heavy activities.
Stakeholders at the conference echoed the NCC’s position, noting that green telecom networks not only protect the environment but also offer economic advantages. They emphasized that such systems can lower operational costs, enhance network resilience, and expand connectivity to underserved rural areas.
The NCC concluded that the future of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry must be rooted in sustainability, urging all stakeholders to act swiftly in embracing greener solutions.
