Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida

The Nigerian Communications Commission NCC has hinted of plans to carry out a comprehensive review of its existing regulatory frameworks and guidelines comprising licensing, enforcement processes and internet code of practice in order to boost standards and ensure consumer protection by facilitating efficient, accessible and competitive communications in the industry

The proposed review is also designed to further safeguard consumers’ rights while ensuring telecoms service providers uphold the highest standards of ethical and technical conduct.

Speaking recently at the Public Enquiry on three Subsidiary Legislations organised by the National Assembly in Abuja, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, noted that the review had become necessary and expedient to facilitate an efficient, accessible and competitive communications industry in Nigeria. He added that the planned review was in tandem with international best practices.

Represented by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management ECSM, Barr. Rimini Makama, Dr Maida said: “The legislations under review played a vital role in ensuring that the communications sector remained viable. The revised Internet Code of Practice, reflects Nigeria’s evolving digital landscape and aims to safeguard the rights of users while ensuring that service providers uphold the highest standards of ethical and technical conduct.

“It introduces robust provisions, including open Internet access, cybersecurity and data protection, use of Artificial Intelligence AI by operators, child online safety, network governance, and anti-spam measures.

“On the enforcement processes regulations, as the industry advances and the globe metamorphoses into a converged market, there is a need to update enforcement measures that are not as limited but provide for regulation through a wider scope.”

The EVC/CEO further highlighted the significance of revised frameworks on Licensing, Enforcement Processes and Internet Code of Practice, which underscores the essence of renewing and refining the regulatory frameworks, adding that licensing remains the core of the Commission’s activities.

He explained this involves mandating issuance of licenses by the Commission to any operator intending to provide communications service in Nigeria.

“In view of current trends and the evolution of digital tools and instruments, there is a need to refine this regulation in order to accommodate these advancements.

“The revised licensing regulations streamlined the licensing process, clarified obligations, and introduced new provisions on general authorisations, renewal of licences, corporate restructuring and transfers, sanctions and enforcement mechanisms.

“These changes are designed to promote ease of doing business, encourage innovation and ensure regulatory clarity”, Dr Maida further stated.

Meanwhile, Head of Legal and Regulatory Services LRS of the Commission, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, who also spoke at the event, affirmed that the proposed review would further the NCC’s enabling legislation; the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, to develop and amend regulatory instruments.

Whyte, who was represented by the Head of Dispute and Litigation of the Commission, Lawrence Abang, said the mandate was part of NCC’s governance and regulation of the entire communications sector in the country.

According to her, the communications industry in Nigeria is currently undergoing a significant transformation in this digital era.

“This development is characterised by rapid technological innovation, and the emergence of new paradigms that continue to redefine global connectivity.

“As these technologies evolve, regulatory frameworks must also adapt at a commensurately accelerated pace to ensure their continued relevance and effectiveness. To this effect, several significant amendments and introductions have been made to a few instruments which will be reviewed during this public enquiry, as a key ingredient of the participatory approach of the NCC.

“This public enquiry, coming after a six-month consultation process, reaffirms the Commission’s dedication to inclusive and transparent regulatory processes”, Mrs. Whyte noted.

She further argued that the public inquiry also underscores the NCC’s commitment to fostering a communications ecosystem that contributes meaningfully to the sustainable development and diversification of Nigeria’s economy.