Internet service providers (ISPs), so-called firms that provide services for accessing, using, the Internet are dying in droves, no thanks to their inabilities to renew operating licenses.
The fate of the ISPs also raises concerns over the quality of internet connectivity in the coming days; the future of firms; as well as the jobs of hundreds of employees.
Already, about 17 ISPs with expired licenses, due for renewal since February this year have failed to do so.
The expired licenses included: ACC Broadcast Multimedia and Adiv Networks Nigeria which expired on February 28.
Other affected are: Chinto Technologies, Internet Solutions Nigeria, Telcoworks Connect Limited, Sea-Net Technologies Nigeria Limited, EMC Networks Nigeria Limited, Ambion Wireless, Atlantic Geodynamics Nigeria, VPS Technologies, Trinitas Apo Limited and Suburban Broadband.
Others in this category are Samira Communications Systems Limited, E-Sense Technology Solutions, Excelsimo Networks and Kropmann Communications.
Another 22 licenses will expire next year, and it is doubtful if the ISPs can cough out the renewal fees.
They include: Wavetek Nigeria Limited, Metronic Satellite Communications, West Atlantic Computers Limited, First Wave Networks, Zeta-Web Nigeria, Centre Point Technologies & Engineering Limited, Netfocus Technologies, Coscharis Technologies, and ClearSky Broadband Ventures.
Others are BAT Computer Technologies, Harpora Nigeria Limited, Pegma Technologies, Micabe Services Limited, Flex Communications, Host Quarters, Softwire Digital Solutions, LSC Technology, Backbone Connectivity Network, Simbanet Nigeria Limited and Content Oasis.
The individual license category costs N500,000 for a period of five years.