The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has urged for the development of a more comprehensive framework for tracking investments in the telecommunications sector, saying current capital importation data does not fully reflect the level of investment being made by operators.

The association made the call while reacting to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Q1 2026 Capital Importation Report, which showed a decline in foreign capital inflows into the telecommunications sector from $80.78 million in 2025 to $7.24 million in the first quarter of 2026.

In a statement jointly signed by Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON Chairman, the association commended the NBS for its efforts in tracking investment flows across key sectors of the economy, but stressed the need for a broader assessment of investments within the telecom industry.

According to ALTON, while foreign capital inflows have declined, telecommunications operators continue to make substantial investments in network infrastructure, technology upgrades and operational expansion through domestic funding sources and reinvested earnings.

The association also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the 50 per cent tariff increase approved in 2025, describing the policy as a critical intervention that helped stabilise the sector during a difficult period.

ALTON said the tariff adjustment addressed revenue sustainability challenges, restored operational viability and enabled operators to shift from financial distress to a growth-oriented model characterised by increased capital reinvestment.

“The timely intervention enabled operators to transition from financial distress to a sustainable, growth-focused model characterised by significant capital reinvestment,” the statement noted.

Providing insight into the sector’s investment profile, ALTON disclosed that Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), tower companies and other industry players invested a total of ₦2.13 trillion in capital expenditure (CAPEX) in 2025. It added that operators have earmarked another ₦1.86 trillion for capital projects in 2026.

The planned investments, according to the association, will support network expansion, technology enhancement and other critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving service quality and coverage nationwide.

ALTON argued that the disparity between reported foreign capital inflows and actual capital expenditure points to a gap in the way sectoral investments are currently measured and reported.

It noted that a significant portion of telecom sector investments now comes from domestic capital sources and reinvested operational earnings, which may not be adequately captured under existing foreign capital importation metrics.

To address this challenge, the association proposed a collaborative engagement involving the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to develop a more inclusive investment-tracking framework.

According to ALTON, a transparent and comprehensive investment reporting system would provide a more accurate picture of the sector’s contribution to the economy, strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness as a destination for telecommunications investment.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with regulators and government agencies to ensure the sector’s contributions to national development are properly documented and recognized.

ALTON also assured Nigerians that telecommunications operators remain committed to continuous investments in network expansion, modernisation, resilience and service quality improvement.

It added that sustained collaboration among government, regulators and industry stakeholders would ensure uninterrupted access to digital services that drive economic growth, innovation, financial inclusion and national development.

QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle-focused direct selling company, has taken note of media reports regarding the recent operation by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Lagos State, which led to the rescue of several individuals and the arrest of suspects allegedly involved in human trafficking, unlawful detention, and fraudulent activities.

QNET

QNET unequivocally condemns all forms of human trafficking, fraud, exploitation, unlawful detention, and other criminal acts. We commend the NSCDC for its swift intervention and for prioritising the safety and welfare of those affected.

While investigations are ongoing, QNET wishes to state clearly that it does not offer employment opportunities, overseas job placements, visas, migration services, or guaranteed financial returns in exchange for payment. Any individual or group making such representations is acting without the knowledge, authorization, or consent of the company.

Commenting on the incident, Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at QNET, said: “Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by this unfortunate situation.

“We wish to reiterate that QNET does not offer jobs, overseas employment opportunities, visa services, or financial guarantees in exchange for payment. These are among the most common tactics used by fraudsters to exploit vulnerable individuals.

“We encourage the public to remain vigilant, verify information through our official channels, and report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. Protecting the public and safeguarding the integrity of our brand remain top priorities for QNET.”

QNET maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, misrepresentation, and unethical conduct. The company actively enforces its Code of Ethics and Compliance Framework and takes disciplinary action against any Independent Distributor found to be in breach of its policies.

Since commencing operations in Nigeria through its local partner, Transblue Limited, in 2022, QNET has intensified its collaboration with government institutions, consumer protection agencies, law enforcement bodies, and the media to combat scams and misinformation associated with its brand.

These efforts include the launch of the “Say NO!” Anti-Fraud Campaign in November 2023, as well as strategic partnerships with the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Beyond Nigeria, similar initiatives have been implemented in Ghana, Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Sierra Leone under the broader QNET Against Scams campaign.

These programmes are designed to educate communities on how to identify legitimate business opportunities, recognise common scam tactics, and avoid becoming victims of fraudulent schemes perpetrated in the company’s name.

QNET remains committed to working alongside governments, regulators, law enforcement agencies, media organisations, and civil society groups to combat fraud, protect consumers, and promote ethical entrepreneurship across Africa.

Members of the public are encouraged to verify information about QNET, its products, and its business model through the company’s official website, www.qnet.net.

Individuals who encounter suspicious recruitment activities, fraudulent job offers, visa schemes, or any misuse of the QNET name are urged to report such incidents through QNET’s compliance and integrity channels.

Suspected cases may be reported via WhatsApp on +233 2566 30005 or by email at [email protected]. All reports are handled confidentially and investigated in accordance with QNET’s compliance procedures.

For more information about QNET and its anti-fraud initiatives, visit www.qnet.net.