Reps Give Telecom CEOs October 28 Deadline Over Poor Services

The House of Representatives has directed telecommunications chief executives to appear before its investigative committee on October 28, 2026, to explain persistent poor network services across Nigeria.

The directive followed the failure of some operators, including MTN and Mafab Communications, to honour earlier invitations. Lawmakers warned that executives who fail to attend could face arrest to compel their appearance.

The ad hoc committee, chaired by Olumide Osoba, issued the ultimatum at a public hearing in Abuja on October 21. The next hearing is scheduled for 2pm in Hearing Room 447, New Building, National Assembly Complex.

The Nigerian Communications Commission was directed to ensure the affected operators attend and submit relevant documents beforehand.

Osoba said unreliable telecommunications services had become a serious economic concern because businesses, financial transactions and essential services depend on stable networks. He cited Point of Sale transactions among activities affected by disruptions.

He insisted that chief executives appear personally to explain operational challenges and measures to address subscribers’ complaints.

Committee member Ibe Osonwa criticised operators for ignoring legislative invitations despite earning substantial revenue from Nigerian customers.

The investigation covers recurring complaints about dropped calls, slow internet speeds, unstable connections and poor network coverage nationwide.