Nigeria's House of Representatives orders telecom CEOs to appear over service failures

Committee sets deadline for telecom operators The House of Representatives in Abuja has instructed the chief executive officers of the country’s major telecommunications firms – MTN Nigeria, Airtel, Globacom and Mafab Communications, together with other providers – to appear before an ad hoc committee within seven days. The hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. on 28 October 2026 in Hearing Room 447 of the new building at the National Assembly Complex.

Reasons for the summons The committee, formed to investigate ongoing complaints about poor network quality, said the decline in service has been affecting millions of subscribers and disrupting business activities across Nigeria. Lawmakers highlighted that reliable telecommunications are now essential for more than voice calls and internet access; they underpin point‑of‑sale transactions, financial services and other critical commercial functions.

Procedural steps and enforcement Chairman of the committee, Representative Olumide Osoba of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ogun State, noted that earlier invitations to several operators, including MTN and Mafab, had been ignored. In response, the committee adopted two motions – sponsored by Representatives Sunday Umeha and Afam Ogene – directing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that all targeted companies attend the hearing and submit relevant documentation before the date set.

Potential consequences Lawmakers warned that any chief executive who fails to comply with the summons could be subject to an arrest order designed to compel attendance. The threat of legal action underscores the seriousness with which the House views the impact of telecommunications disruptions on the national economy.

Broader context Nigeria’s telecom sector has grown rapidly, but persistent network outages have prompted consumer frustration and raised concerns among businesses that rely on digital payments and online services. By bringing senior executives before the legislative body, the House aims to obtain explanations for the service decline and to pressure operators into improving infrastructure and reliability.

Next steps The NCC is tasked with monitoring compliance and ensuring that the required documents are filed ahead of the hearing. The outcome of the 28 October session is expected to shape future regulatory measures and could lead to stricter oversight of service standards across the industry.