FG Set To Roll Out Free Daily Data For Nigerian Students From October 1

The Federal Government has announced that Nigerian students will begin receiving 100 megabytes of free daily data from October 1, 2026, to access approved educational websites and digital learning platforms.

The initiative, implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in partnership with telecom operators and the Federal Ministry of Education, will initially cover public senior secondary school and tertiary institution students. Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa announced the commencement date on Thursday at the launch of the Initiative for Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Abuja.

Alausa said the scheme would eventually extend to other categories of learners, stressing that no Nigerian learner should be denied quality educational content due to the cost of data.

He also disclosed that government was working on measures to regulate internet access for children below age 16, ensuring content remains appropriate, credible and curriculum-aligned, with further details to follow.

NCC Director of Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis Ayuba Shuaibu said the ministry and the commission would jointly approve platforms to be whitelisted, including learning management systems, digital libraries and technical/vocational training platforms, under an “operator consult” rollout model.

He added that the framework requires compliance with cybersecurity, consumer protection, child protection and data protection regulations, alongside safeguards on net neutrality and fair competition.
NCC Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management Rimini Makama said the initiative aims to ensure no learner is excluded due to location or household income, while Communications Minister Dr Bosun Tijani, represented by Adetunji Adeyemo, described it as a major step toward affordable digital education.

NCC Executive Commissioner for Technical Services Abraham Oshadami named MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria and Globacom among the operators supporting the programme.