Learners Get Free Daily Data as NCC, ALTON Launch Education Initiative

Temitope Adebayo

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), has commenced the rollout of zero-rated data access to approved educational platforms and content.

The initiative, which began on October 1, 2026, is designed to reduce the cost of internet access for digital learning and enable eligible learners to access educational resources, online courses, research materials and other academic content.

Under the operator-sponsored model, eligible users will receive up to 100 megabytes of free data daily to access designated educational platforms.

At the full daily allocation, learners could receive up to 700MB of educational data weekly, about 3GB monthly and approximately 36.5GB annually.

The initiative is part of efforts by the NCC to promote affordable, accessible and reliable communications services while supporting digital skills development and human capital growth across the country.

Speaking on the rollout, NCC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Aminu Maida, said the initiative was designed to provide learners with easier access to educational platforms and contribute to broader efforts to equip Nigerians with digital skills and knowledge.

Maida said the programme was particularly important because of the role of education and skills development in building a productive workforce and supporting economic growth.

He noted that while 100MB of free daily data might appear modest, its cumulative impact would be significant when considered over a month, a year and across millions of learners expected to benefit from the initiative.

Maida said improved connectivity would also help reduce disparities in access to educational resources by connecting learners with teachers, learning materials and knowledge regardless of their location.

Meanwhile, ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, said the telecommunications and wider technology industry had committed significant financial and in-kind resources to the initiative.

According to Adebayo, the industry’s commitment is valued at almost ₦200 billion for the initial pilot involving 5,000 learners.

He said the figure covers the value of the daily 100MB connectivity allocation, network resources, devices, terminals and other support provided by participating industry stakeholders.

Adebayo explained that telecommunications operators were absorbing the cost of the connectivity and network capacity required to provide daily access to approved educational platforms.

He said the initiative involves telecommunications operators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), tower companies and other technology stakeholders.

The ALTON chairman stressed that the success of digital education would require more than internet access, noting the importance of devices, relevant educational content, reliable infrastructure, digital literacy and sustained investment.

He urged other stakeholders to support the initiative, saying the telecommunications industry was contributing resources to complement government efforts on education and digital inclusion.

“This is a partnership in the truest sense: Government provides the policy and educational framework; the regulator provides coordination and oversight; telecommunications operators provide connectivity and network resources; while OEMs, TowerCos and other technology partners contribute devices, terminals and other critical resources,” Adebayo said.

He added that ALTON and its members would continue to work with the Federal Government, NCC, Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to ensure that the initiative delivers measurable and sustainable educational outcomes.

The zero-rated access programme is expected to enable participating learners to undertake research, prepare for examinations, acquire digital skills and access educational content without using their regular data allowance for the approved platforms.