Nigeria’s telecommunications operators have urgently called for stronger government support, consistent policies and state-enforced protection of network infrastructure to sustain the industry’s contribution to the country’s digital economy. Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, made the submission in a paper prepared for presentation at the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) Innovative Conference 2026, themed “Bridging Nigeria’s Digital Divide with Scientific Innovation.” Adebayo described the telecom industry as one of Africa’s biggest digital transformation success stories. “Every investment in resilient telecommunications infrastructure is an investment in economic growth, innovation, national security and inclusive development.”