The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has officially rolled out its much-anticipated Licensing Framework for Application-To-Person (A2P) services, a move that promises to bring greater structure and transparency to the rapidly evolving telecom industry. The framework, which has been carefully crafted in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) of 2003, was made available for public access on the Commission’s official website, www.ncc.gov.ng, as of November 29, 2024.

The A2P service model plays a crucial role in facilitating automated communication between businesses and their customers, typically for notifications, alerts, and marketing messages. This framework is designed to regulate how such services are delivered, ensuring that the process is seamless, efficient, and compliant with existing laws. By setting clear guidelines, the NCC aims to foster a more reliable and transparent ecosystem for both service providers and consumers.

In an effort to engage stakeholders and foster inclusive participation, the NCC has announced that a Stakeholders Forum will be held virtually on December 20th, 2024. The forum is set to provide a space for operators, providers, and other industry players to discuss the framework, voice their opinions, and ask questions to NCC officials. This interactive session will also allow for a deeper understanding of the framework’s objectives and its potential impact on the telecommunications landscape.

“We are committed to ensuring that the Nigerian telecom sector continues to grow in a way that is both regulated and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders,” said an NCC representative. “The A2P framework is a key step in maintaining the integrity of our telecom space, and we are eager to hear from all those who are affected by it.”

To ensure that the process remains transparent and responsive to feedback, the NCC has invited all interested parties to submit their comments and suggestions on the framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to review the document and share their views before the deadline on December 19th, 2024. Contributions can be sent via email to aadaba@ncc.gov.ng, with a copy to msyusuf@ncc.gov.ng.

By opening this dialogue, the NCC hopes to create a regulatory environment that not only protects the interests of consumers but also supports the growth of businesses within the telecom sector. This initiative is part of the Commission’s broader mission to maintain the highest standards of governance, compliance, and service delivery within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The NCC remains steadfast in its commitment to the continued development of a robust and well-regulated telecom sector that aligns with international best practices while addressing the unique needs of the Nigerian market.