By Mariam Sanni
Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, and the Ministry of Communication have begun the review of the national telecom policy to address the integration of emerging technologies.
Executive Vice Chairman, EVC, NCC, Dr Aminu Maida disclosed this during an interactive session with the media in Abuja.
He discussed the evolution of Nigeria’s telecom policy, highlighting key developments such as tariff adjustments, corporate governance guidelines and the USSD debt settlement.
He emphasised the shift from traditional enforcement to information disclosure to foster competition, noting a reduction in call rates from N50 to N18 per minute.
The EVC said the 2,000 national telecom policy led to NCA 2003, which transformed the industry from 500,000 lines to over 100 million lines.
He explained that the ministry, not the commission, is responsible for policy and the regulator works with the ministry to advise and recommend on policy matters.
He noted that the context has changed from voice calls and text messages to internet connectivity and emerging technologies like AI, IoT and remote services.
Maida said the new focus is on ensuring robust internet infrastructure for high-speed connectivity and reliable applications, including data centers and internet exchang.
He added that the policy will also address the integration of emerging technologies and the need for simplified compliance and information disclosure.
He said traditional regulation relies on rules and enforcement, with punitive measures for non-compliance.
He stressed that the urgent need to shift from regulating voice and text messages to the era of the internet necessitated a new approach.
He announced the upcoming release of a public map for network performance based on consumer data.
He noted that the map will provide independent data, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about their network providers.
According to him, a quarterly performance report will be released, offering extensive analysis of network performance based on real data.
He said the the goal is to empower consumers with accurate and transparent information to drive better service quality and competition.
