The Nigerian Communications Commission NCC has commenced engagement with stakeholders that would culminate in the review of the National Telecommunications Policy NTP, 2000 in line with efforts to strengthen the country’s digital economy and telecommunications sector.

To this effect, the Commission organised a two-day Policy Review Workshop to deliberate on the review of the NTP 2000 framework. The workshop, which began on Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, brought together key stakeholders to assess the progress recorded in the telecommunications sector over the years and chart a new direction for the country’s digital future.

Speaking at the workshop, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, noted Nigeria’s communications sector has evolved from an isolated industry into a foundational ecosystem that currently drives national development.

“There is therefore urgent need for strong and forward-looking policy frameworks to regulate emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence AI, Satellite Broadband, the Internet of Things IoT, Critical National Information Infrastructure, Digital Sovereignty, Network Resilience, Sustainable Innovation, and Quality of Experience QoE.

“The strategic digitisation of key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and trade is projected to significantly boost Nigeria’s economy”, he said

Dr. Maida, who cited data from the Global System for Mobile Communications Association GSMA, said digitisation could contribute an additional two per cent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product GDP, create about two million jobs, and generate approximately N1.6 trillion in tax revenue.

He also highlighted the growing importance of modern regulatory measures to address cybersecurity, data governance, digital financing, and online safety in the rapidly expanding digital ecosystem.

According to him, the policy review workshop would provide stakeholders with an opportunity to examine the evolution and legacy of the National Telecommunications Policy 2000 while identifying strategies for bridging the digital divide through collaborative implementation.

Other areas discussed at the workshop during the technical panel sessions include building a resilient digital future that balances innovation, security, and public trust, as well as examining international telecommunications policy models and global best practices.

The workshop is also reviewing stakeholder feedback on the Commission’s published policy proposals aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital communications framework.

He said: “This engagement reflects ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready digital economy for Nigerians.”