The Nigerian Senate has approved a combined ₦287.4 billion budget for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) for the 2025 fiscal year, signalling renewed federal commitment to expanding digital access and strengthening telecommunications infrastructure nationwide.
The approval followed the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Communications, led by Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis, during plenary on Tuesday.
Of the approved sum, ₦272.4 billion is earmarked for the NCC, while ₦15 billion is allocated to the USPF—a critical intervention fund focused on bridging Nigeria’s digital divide by expanding telecom access in underserved and remote communities.
According to the report, the USPF plans to deploy ₦10.9 billion to implement projects aimed at driving broadband penetration, community connectivity, and digital literacy in rural areas. An additional ₦4.04 billion is budgeted for recurrent costs at the fund’s secretariat, while ₦53.96 million is set aside for capital development.
“After reviewing all documentation and engaging with relevant stakeholders, the Committee is satisfied with the proposals and recommends Senate approval,” Senator Bilbis said during the presentation.
On its part, the NCC’s ₦272.4 billion budget includes ₦95.7 billion for recurrent costs, covering regulatory operations and personnel; ₦10.75 billion for capital projects; and ₦40.9 billion for strategic special projects that align with national digital transformation priorities.
The NCC’s Director of Financial Services, Mr. Yakubu Gontor, earlier provided technical insight during the budget defence, stressing that the allocations will enable the Commission to strengthen regulation, foster innovation, and improve service quality across Nigeria’s telecom sector.
The Senate unanimously adopted the report, endorsing both budgets without amendment or objection.
