NCC Pushes Green Telecoms Initiative, Aims for 50% Cost Reduction

NCC Pushes Green Telecoms Initiative, Aims for 50% Cost Reduction

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced an ambitious push for its Green Telecoms Initiative, aiming to slash operational costs in the telecommunications sector by up to 50 per cent while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Speaking at the recently concluded Green Conference, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, said adopting eco-friendly technologies is crucial for both financial efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Represented at the event by the Commission’s Head of Projects, Shuaibu Swade, Dr. Maida highlighted the dual role of digital infrastructure: connecting Nigerians while protecting the environment.

“As a telecommunications regulator, we stand at the intersection of connectivity and sustainability. Telecommunications is the backbone of the digital economy, but it must also become a backbone of environmental responsibility,” he said.

The initiative seeks to achieve its ambitious cost reduction target primarily by encouraging telecom operators to replace diesel-powered generators with renewable energy solutions, a move projected to cut operating expenses by 30 to 50 per cent.

Other strategies include infrastructure sharing among operators, promoting renewable-powered telecom towers, and better management of electronic waste generated by digital equipment.

The NCC also plans to strengthen Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting standards across the telecom sector to ensure transparency and accountability in sustainability efforts.

Digital technologies, the Commission noted, can further reduce carbon emissions through solutions such as remote work, smart services, and reduced travel.

Dr. Maida stressed that the future of connectivity in Nigeria must be sustainable, urging industry players to adopt green solutions without delay.

Stakeholders at the conference underlined that green telecommunications networks deliver both economic and environmental benefits.

Besides lowering operational costs, they improve network resilience and expand connectivity in underserved rural communities.