NCC Launches Groundbreaking Protection for Nigerians’ Unused Airtime, Introduces 12-Month Recovery Window

NCC Launches Groundbreaking Protection for Nigerians’ Unused Airtime, Introduces 12-Month Recovery Window

 

In a historic move for Nigeria’s telecom sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today announced sweeping reforms that will safeguard millions of naira in unused airtime from disappearing when phone lines are deactivated. The bold new protections, unveiled during a national stakeholder forum, represent the most significant consumer rights advancement in Nigeria’s digital age.

Speaking at the virtual gathering, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, NCC’s Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, painted a vivid picture of the human impact behind the policy shift. “We’re talking about market women who save for weeks to buy airtime, students rationing credit for online classes, and entrepreneurs depending on every naira for their business communications,” she said. “These aren’t just numbers on a balance sheet—they’re the lifeblood of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

The centerpiece of the new framework gives subscribers an unprecedented 12-month window to reclaim unused airtime after their line is deactivated, a dramatic departure from current industry practice where balances vanish immediately. Telecom operators will now be required to preserve these funds and offer affected customers options to convert them into usable services like call minutes, data bundles, or other value-added offerings.

Mrs. Whyte emphasized that the reforms address a longstanding injustice in the sector, where an estimated ₦3 billion in subscriber airtime goes unclaimed annually. “This is about restoring fairness and transparency,” she told attendees. “When Nigerians pay for services, they deserve to know their money is protected—even if life circumstances temporarily take them offline.”

“Today, Nigeria sends a clear message that in our digital economy, every naira counts and every subscriber matters.” The Commission continues to welcome public input through its website until May 15, ensuring final guidelines reflect the needs of all stakeholders.

The policy introduces rigorous new requirements for telecom providers, including mandatory pre-deactivation notifications to warn subscribers about impending service termination and clear instructions for reclaiming balances. Operators will also face stringent auditing requirements, compelling them to maintain detailed records of all unclaimed balances and submit regular reports to the NCC.

Consumer advocates at the forum welcomed the changes, sharing emotional testimonies about the real-world impact. Nurse Adeola K. described losing ₦8,500 during a hectic hospital rotation, while tech entrepreneur Emeka O. noted the policy finally aligns telecom practices with the financial accountability expected in other sectors.Unused different smart phones | Premium AI-generated PSD

Implementation will move swiftly, with operators given just 90 days from the policy’s final adoption to establish compliant systems. The NCC plans to support the transition with public awareness campaigns, including multilingual FAQs and social media guides to help Nigerians navigate the new protections.

As the forum concluded, Mrs. Whyte issued a powerful reminder of the policy’s broader significance: “Today, Nigeria sends a clear message that in our digital economy, every naira counts and every subscriber matters.” The Commission continues to welcome public input through its website until May 15, ensuring final guidelines reflect the needs of all stakeholders.

For millions of Nigerian telecom users, the reforms promise something simple yet revolutionary—the peace of mind that their hard-earned airtime will no longer vanish without recourse. As the policy takes effect in coming months, subscribers are encouraged to watch for notifications from their providers and visit NCC platforms for guidance on claiming past balances.

This landmark decision positions Nigeria as a regional leader in consumer-focused telecom regulation, proving that robust protections can coexist with a thriving digital marketplace. The NCC’s bold stance sets a new standard for putting people first in Africa’s largest telecom sector.

NCC Debunks Tariff Increase Speculations

NCC Debunks Tariff Increase Speculations

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has refuted claims circulating in the media about an impending increase in service tariffs by telecommunications providers, scheduled for January 2025. The Commission clarified that no official approval has been granted for any such tariff adjustments.

Reliable sources within the NCC emphasized that the Commission adheres to a rigorous, evidence-based, and data-driven process for tariff modifications, ensuring any changes align with regulatory standards and public interest.

Similarly, officials from the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy dismissed the reports, describing them as unfounded and misleading. A senior official from the Ministry noted, “These claims are entirely untrue and uncalled for. Only a properly constituted board of the NCC has the authority to approve tariff increases, and such a decision has not been made.”

Investigations by Tech and Biz News NG revealed that the speculations are baseless, likely stemming from desperate attempts by some people to pressure for a tariff hike through unofficial means.

The NCC reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in all its regulatory activities, urging stakeholders and the public to disregard unverified claims while assuring that any tariff adjustments would follow established guidelines and involve extensive consultations.

 

NCC in 2024: Putting Subscribers First and Driving Telecom Growth

NCC in 2024: Putting Subscribers First and Driving Telecom Growth

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been a game-changer in 2024, reaffirming its commitment to Nigerian subscribers and the telecom industry. Addressing recent speculations about a tariff hike, the Commission has reassured Nigerians that they remain at the heart of its decisions.

This year, the NCC has taken bold steps to ensure that subscribers enjoy improved services and better protection. For instance, it mandated telecom providers to resolve customer complaints within 30 minutes at service centers, saving subscribers time and enhancing their overall experience.

The Commission has also been instrumental in expanding broadband access across the country. With its drive to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025, millions of Nigerians now have better access to affordable and reliable internet, creating opportunities for businesses, education, and social inclusion.

One of the standout achievements this year has been the NCC’s efforts to promote digital inclusion. Through partnerships and campaigns, the Commission has brought internet services to underserved communities, giving more Nigerians a chance to participate in the digital economy.

Cybersecurity has also been a top priority. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms, the NCC introduced stronger measures to protect subscribers from online threats, ensuring that the digital space remains safe for all users.

Economically, the NCC has created a vibrant environment for growth. By fostering competition and attracting new investments, it has helped reduce costs for subscribers while keeping the industry robust and innovative.

In response to rumors of tariff hikes, the NCC has reassured Nigerians that any decisions about tariffs will be transparent and in line with the realities of the economy. The Commission encourages subscribers to ignore unverified information and trust in its dedication to their welfare.

As the year progresses, the NCC continues to prove that it is not just a regulator but a partner to Nigerians, ensuring that the telecom sector remains dynamic, inclusive, and subscriber-focused.

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu.

 

NCC Charts a New Path for A2P Messaging in Nigeria with Stakeholder Forum

NCC Charts a New Path for A2P Messaging in Nigeria with Stakeholder Forum

 

In a significant move to enhance communication services and boost socio-economic development, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) hosted a virtual stakeholder forum on Friday, December 20, 2024, to deliberate on the draft framework for Application-to-Person (A2P) Messaging Services Licensing. The session provided a collaborative platform for industry players, government representatives, and consumers to discuss the potential and challenges of A2P messaging in Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape.

A2P messaging, widely recognized as a vital communication tool, facilitates one-way notifications from businesses and applications to individuals. From transactional alerts such as bank notifications to promotional campaigns and healthcare reminders, the framework for A2P messaging aims to set the standard for delivering secure, reliable, and timely updates.

Building Bridges Between Stakeholders

Welcoming participants on behalf of the NCC Executive Vice Chairman, the acting Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, underscored the importance of the forum. “A2P messaging has become a cornerstone of modern communication, enabling businesses, governments, and service providers to connect with individuals effectively,” she stated.

Mrs. Whyte highlighted the unique benefits A2P messaging offers to stakeholders. For governments, it serves as a reliable medium for disseminating public service announcements and crucial information. For consumers, it guarantees secure access to essential updates. For businesses, A2P messaging drives innovation, creates growth opportunities, and fosters competition.

“From bank alerts to healthcare updates and government campaigns, A2P messaging is revolutionizing the way we communicate and engage. It is an essential tool for building efficiency and supporting socio-economic growth in Nigeria,” she added.

Addressing Challenges for a Thriving Ecosystem

Despite its transformative potential, Mrs. Whyte acknowledged that the A2P messaging landscape in Nigeria is not without its challenges. Issues such as fraud, spam, data privacy breaches, and uneven value distribution have hindered the growth of this critical communication tool.

“These gaps pose risks not only to businesses and consumers but also to the sustainable development of the A2P ecosystem,” she remarked. She further noted that the NCC is determined to address these challenges through fair and transparent regulations that protect all stakeholders.

The forum provided a platform for stakeholders to share their feedback on the proposed licensing framework, ensuring that the final document reflects a balanced and inclusive perspective. “Effective regulation stems from collaboration,” Mrs. Whyte emphasized. “Our goal is to create a thriving ecosystem that protects consumers, fosters fair competition, and unlocks new opportunities for innovation and growth.”

Expert Insights on the Draft Framework

Adding to the discussion, Mrs. Truddy Tony-Awusaku, Assistant Director of the Licensing and Authorisation Department, provided an in-depth overview of the framework for international A2P messaging in Nigeria. Her presentation shed light on the framework’s technical and operational aspects, further enriching the dialogue among participants.

The session concluded with a review of feedback from stakeholders, with the NCC addressing various concerns and suggestions. The Commission reiterated its commitment to developing a regulatory environment that ensures fairness, innovation, and security within the telecommunications sector.

A Step Towards Sustainable Growth

Hosting the forum aligns with the NCC’s participatory approach to policymaking, a strategy that prioritizes inclusivity and transparency. By engaging stakeholders in shaping the A2P Messaging Services Licensing Framework, the Commission aims to build a robust foundation for sustainable growth.

“The NCC remains committed to providing a regulatory framework that supports innovation, protects stakeholders, and ensures the telecommunications sector continues to thrive,” Mrs. Whyte assured participants.

This forum marks a pivotal step in redefining Nigeria’s communication landscape, demonstrating the NCC’s dedication to fostering a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem for A2P messaging. As the framework nears finalization, stakeholders look forward to its potential to transform communication and drive progress across industries.

 

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

 

After a challenging period marked by regulatory audits and disruptions, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is rebounding with renewed vigor. The nation’s mobile subscription base climbed to an impressive 157.3 million in October 2024, up from 154.6 million in the previous month. This marks a significant turnaround following setbacks linked to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) audit and the implementation of the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage exercise.

The growth is being driven primarily by MTN and Airtel, two of the country’s largest mobile network operators. MTN, the undisputed market leader, added a staggering 2.2 million new subscriptions in just one month, bringing its total to 80.3 million active lines. This surge has pushed MTN’s market share to 51.09%, solidifying its role as the backbone of Nigeria’s telecom industry.

For Airtel, the month was equally promising. The network saw an influx of 697,430 new subscribers, raising its active base to 54.4 million. This growth translated to a 31.61% market share, further cementing Airtel’s position as a key player in connecting Nigerians across the country.

This recovery extends beyond mere numbers. The rise in active subscriptions has significantly improved Nigeria’s teledensity—a metric that gauges telecom penetration relative to population size. Teledensity grew from 71.46% in September to 72.7% in October, a clear indicator of the industry’s resilience and its ability to adapt to regulatory demands.

However, not all telecom operators are celebrating. Globacom, Nigeria’s third-largest provider, faced another challenging month, losing 44,635 subscriptions. Its active subscriber base now stands at 19.1 million, with its market share slipping to 12.15%. For 9mobile, the struggles are even more pronounced. The operator, which has been battling customer retention issues for years, shed 245,263 subscribers in October, leaving it with a mere 3.3 million active users and a market share of just 2.15%.

The challenges faced by these operators stem largely from the NCC’s rigorous audit, which aimed to cleanse the sector of inaccuracies and ensure compliance with industry guidelines. The audit revealed that one network operator had wrongly classified 40 million inactive lines as active. These lines, which had not generated any revenue for over 90 days, violated the NCC’s criteria for active users and had skewed the industry’s overall data.

For the industry as a whole, these regulatory interventions, while initially disruptive, appear to have laid the groundwork for a more stable and transparent telecom ecosystem. Industry insiders note that the efforts to link SIM cards with NINs and enforce proper registration processes are crucial steps toward creating a system that prioritizes both security and efficiency.

This growth story isn’t just about numbers; it’s about connecting people, businesses, and communities. From bustling urban centers to remote rural villages, telecom operators like MTN and Airtel are driving progress by enabling millions of Nigerians to stay connected, access digital services, and participate in the global economy.

As the industry regains its footing, the onus is now on all players to innovate, compete, and meet the evolving demands of Nigeria’s diverse and dynamic population. For MTN and Airtel, the challenge will be to sustain this growth, while for Globacom and 9mobile, it’s a wake-up call to rethink strategies and reclaim market relevance.

In the words of a telecom analyst, “This recovery is not just a win for the operators but a win for Nigeria. It reflects the potential of a robust telecom sector to drive digital inclusion, economic growth, and societal transformation.”

 

NCC Champions Seamless, Safe, and Profitable Telecom Industry Through Type Approval Standards

NCC Champions Seamless, Safe, and Profitable Telecom Industry Through Type Approval Standards

 

In its relentless drive to create a thriving, efficient, and safe telecommunications landscape, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has implemented comprehensive standards for telecom equipment through its “Type Approval” process. These regulations are designed to ensure that every device used in Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem is not only safe but also operates seamlessly to support the industry’s growth and enhance the quality of service (QoS) for millions of Nigerians.

The NCC’s vision is clear: to make Nigeria’s telecom industry a model of excellence, fostering innovation, interoperability, and consumer satisfaction. As the industry regulator, the NCC recognizes that its role extends beyond oversight—it is about enabling progress and profitability for stakeholders, from operators to end-users.

A Commitment to Seamlessness and Safety

The Commission, empowered by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, emphasizes that its Type Approval standards are not just technical requirements—they are the backbone of a robust telecom environment. According to the NCC:

> “Our mission is to ensure that every telecommunications device operates harmoniously within Nigeria’s ecosystem, prioritizing safety, affordability, and user experience. This is vital for creating a network that supports innovation and delivers world-class service to consumers.”

 

The Type Approval process ensures that all telecom equipment—whether used by operators or individuals—meets stringent safety and operational benchmarks before entering the Nigerian market.

Global Standards for a World-Class Industry

Understanding the global nature of telecommunications, the NCC has aligned its standards with international best practices. Drawing from globally recognized institutions such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), and others, the Commission ensures that Nigeria’s telecom industry is globally competitive.

This alignment means that equipment manufacturers, vendors, and operators can seamlessly integrate their technologies into Nigeria’s networks while maintaining affordability and quality for consumers. Additionally, the NCC leverages Nigeria’s membership in organizations like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to stay at the forefront of global regulatory advancements.

Empowering the Industry for Growth

The NCC’s Type Approval standards cover a wide range of telecom equipment, from mobile phones and wireless adapters to advanced satellite communication devices. These standards are grouped into categories to address specific industry needs, including:

Safety and reliability: Ensuring devices are safe for consumers and operators.

Electromagnetic compatibility: Minimizing interference for smooth operations.

Physical interoperability: Guaranteeing seamless integration across networks and systems.

By ensuring that only high-quality, compliant equipment is used, the NCC provides operators with the tools they need to deliver reliable services. This ultimately reduces operational challenges, enhances consumer satisfaction, and builds trust in Nigeria’s telecom sector.

Supporting Innovation and Excluding Obsolescence

While the NCC champions innovation, it also recognizes the importance of focusing on relevant technologies. The Commission excludes obsolete services, such as analogue mobile telephony, and those unlikely to gain traction in Nigeria, ensuring that resources are dedicated to impactful advancements.

Deepening Quality of Service for Nigerians

At the heart of the NCC’s mission is the Nigerian consumer. By enforcing these standards, the Commission not only ensures safety and compatibility but also deepens the quality of service across the board. Whether it’s clearer calls, faster internet, or more reliable connections, the Type Approval process directly contributes to improving the daily experiences of Nigerians.

A Profitable and Sustainable Industry

For operators and stakeholders, the NCC’s focus on international standards and interoperability creates a level playing field that fosters growth and profitability. By eliminating the risks associated with substandard equipment, the Commission helps businesses reduce costs, optimize performance, and deliver better value to their customers.

A Partner for Progress

The NCC’s approach to regulation is not about imposing restrictions; it’s about building partnerships for progress. By working closely with manufacturers, operators, and international organizations, the Commission ensures that Nigeria’s telecom industry remains a leader in Africa and a benchmark for others to follow.

 

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission’s Type Approval standards reflect its unwavering dedication to creating a seamless, safe, and profitable telecom industry. By prioritizing global best practices, innovation, and consumer satisfaction, the NCC continues to empower the industry, deepen the quality of service, and position Nigeria as a hub for telecommunications excellence.

 

NCC Decries Vandalism and Access Denial, Warns of Far-Reaching Consequences on Nigeria’s Telecom Industry

NCC Decries Vandalism and Access Denial, Warns of Far-Reaching Consequences on Nigeria’s Telecom Industry

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has raised an urgent alarm over the destructive impact of vandalism and denial of access to telecom facilities, describing these challenges as critical threats to the nation’s digital economy and connectivity goals.

Speaking at the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series, organized by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Dr. Aminu Maida from the NCC painted a sobering picture of how these issues ripple across the telecommunications ecosystem, affecting millions of Nigerians.

A Chain Reaction of Challenges
Dr. Maida revealed that vandalism and theft, coupled with widespread denial of access to telecom facilities, have created a domino effect that cripples network expansion and service maintenance. “In 2023 alone, over 20,000 cases of site access denial were recorded,” he said. “Each of these cases represents a missed opportunity to connect more Nigerians and a barrier to building a robust digital economy.”

The denial of access by property owners, communities, and various levels of government has hindered operators from installing new infrastructure and maintaining existing ones. This seemingly isolated issue has far-reaching consequences, not only for the telecom industry but also for the socioeconomic growth of the nation.

The Domino Effects on Nigerians
When a telecom site is vandalized or access to it is restricted, the effects extend beyond the immediate inconvenience of dropped calls or slow internet speeds:

1. Economic Stagnation: Businesses, especially SMEs reliant on digital connectivity, are unable to thrive due to inconsistent or unavailable services. Entrepreneurs are losing customers, while e-commerce platforms struggle to meet demands.

2. Disrupted Education: With online learning now a critical part of education, students in affected areas are left disconnected, their academic progress hindered by poor network quality.

3. Healthcare Impact: Telemedicine services, which rely on stable networks to provide remote consultations, become unreliable, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is already limited.

4. National Security Risks: Vandalized or inaccessible telecom facilities can compromise communication systems used for security and emergency response, leaving communities vulnerable.

5. Digital Transformation Delays: The federal government’s ambition to build a thriving digital economy is directly impacted, as these setbacks hinder progress in broadband penetration and other critical infrastructure goals.

 

A Call for Collective Action
The NCC emphasized that these issues cannot be solved in isolation. Telecom operators, government agencies, community leaders, and property owners must work collaboratively to address the root causes.

“This isn’t just about telecom companies—it’s about the entire nation,” Dr. Maida stated. “Every time a mast is vandalized or a site is blocked, it creates a ripple effect that hurts every Nigerian in one way or another. Protecting telecom facilities is a collective responsibility.”

The Road Ahead
To tackle these challenges, the NCC is intensifying its advocacy and engaging with stakeholders to find lasting solutions. Proposals include stricter laws against vandalism, public awareness campaigns on the importance of telecom infrastructure, and streamlined processes for gaining access to sites in restricted areas.

As Nigeria strives to enhance its digital connectivity and position itself as a global tech hub, protecting the backbone of its telecom network has never been more critical. Failure to act decisively, the NCC warned, could result in a stagnated digital economy and a disconnected population at a time when connectivity is synonymous with progress.

The stakes are high, but with a united approach, the vision of a fully connected Nigeria can still be achieved.

 

NCC Partners with ICANN to Enhance Cybersecurity Awareness with DNSSEC Webinar

NCC Partners with ICANN to Enhance Cybersecurity Awareness with DNSSEC Webinar

 

In a bold step towards strengthening Nigeria’s internet security landscape, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to host a groundbreaking webinar on Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC). This free virtual event, designed to enlighten stakeholders on the critical role of DNSSEC in safeguarding internet infrastructure, is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. WAT.

The NCC, in a notice published on its verified social media platforms on December 9, 2024, revealed that the session is being organized in collaboration with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a global organization dedicated to ensuring a secure, stable, and unified internet.

Why This Matters
As the internet continues to drive Nigeria’s digital economy, cyber threats have become a growing concern. The DNSSEC protocol, an essential tool for enhancing internet security, prevents malicious activities such as domain hijacking and data breaches. This webinar is part of the NCC’s broader mission to create a safer and more resilient internet environment for Nigerians.

“The objective of this webinar is to promote DNSSEC validation and ensure that by the first quarter of 2025, Nigeria achieves at least a 50% DNSSEC validation rate,” the NCC stated. “We are committed to ensuring increased awareness of DNSSEC by the end of this year.”

Meet the Speakers
The event will feature a lineup of distinguished experts who will shed light on the practical implementation and benefits of DNSSEC:

Babagana Digima, Head of New Media and Information Security at NCC, will provide insights into NCC’s ongoing efforts to bolster cybersecurity in Nigeria.

Dr. Ibiso Kingsley-George, Head of the Internet Governance Unit at NCC, will discuss the policy framework and the global significance of DNSSEC.

Yazid Akanho, Technical Engagement Manager for the Middle East and Africa at ICANN, will bring an international perspective on DNSSEC adoption and its impact across the region.

How to Participate
The NCC has extended an open invitation to industry professionals, academics, IT enthusiasts, and the general public to join this informative session. Registration details are available via the link: https://bit.ly/DNSSECWebinarReg.

This webinar reflects the NCC’s proactive approach to equipping Nigeria’s digital ecosystem with the tools and knowledge needed to combat cyber threats. By collaborating with ICANN, the Commission aims to position Nigeria as a leader in internet security practices across Africa.

For participants, this is more than just a webinar—it’s an opportunity to contribute to the nation’s journey toward a safer, more secure digital future.

 

Why Revisiting Telecom Tariffs is Essential for Nigeria’s Digital Future

Why Revisiting Telecom Tariffs is Essential for Nigeria’s Digital Future

 

As the cost of living continues to rise, it is becoming increasingly clear that the telecommunications sector, a backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, cannot be exempt from the economic realities gripping the nation. While Nigerians depend heavily on affordable and reliable voice and internet services, the truth is that telecom operators are grappling with skyrocketing operational expenses, which threaten the sustainability of the entire industry.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that it will unveil a new and simpler tariff structure for telecom operators on December 13, 2024. This move signals a critical step towards addressing the imbalance between service costs and operational realities. While no one likes the idea of paying more, we must face the uncomfortable truth: quality services come at a cost, and maintaining the status quo could lead to a collapse in service standards.

The Unseen Struggles of Telecom Operators

Telecom operators in Nigeria, including major players like MTN, Airtel, and Glo, have long kept prices stable, even as the costs of fuel, electricity, and infrastructure maintenance have soared. In October, MTN’s CEO, Karl Toriola, painted a bleak picture: the industry is hemorrhaging money, relying on financial reserves to stay afloat. This is not a sustainable model.

Earlier this year, telecom operators made their first call for a tariff review in 11 years. Their argument was simple: without a fair adjustment to tariffs, the quality of service will deteriorate, and the financial health of the sector will be compromised. Despite these warnings, the industry has continued to bear the brunt of economic inflation without passing the costs on to consumers.

Why Nigerians Should Pay Attention

The telecommunications sector is one of the few that has not raised prices despite inflationary pressures. Yet, this generosity cannot last forever. Network operators must invest in infrastructure to expand coverage, improve internet speeds, and ensure that call quality meets global standards. Without the necessary financial resources, these investments will stall, leaving Nigerians with subpar services.

It’s also worth considering that telecommunications are no longer a luxury but a necessity. From remote work to online learning, e-commerce, and healthcare, every aspect of modern life depends on a robust and reliable digital network. If we expect first-world services, we must be willing to shoulder part of the cost.

The NCC’s Balancing Act

The NCC’s new tariff framework promises to make pricing more transparent and consumer-friendly. While the details are still under wraps, it’s crucial that any changes strike a balance between affordability for consumers and profitability for operators. This is not just about raising prices—it’s about ensuring that the industry remains viable while providing Nigerians with the quality services they deserve.

A well-thought-out tariff adjustment could also open the door for innovative pricing models. For example, operators might introduce data-sharing plans, pay-per-use models, or tailored packages for different demographics. Such initiatives would ensure that consumers get value for money while helping operators cover their costs.

A Call for Understanding

As we approach December 13, it’s important for Nigerians to approach this issue with an open mind. Nobody wants to pay more, but the cost of doing nothing is far greater. If operators can no longer sustain their services, the digital backbone of our economy will crumble, affecting millions of lives and businesses.

The NCC’s forthcoming announcement is a reminder that we are all stakeholders in this industry. While telecom operators must prioritize efficiency and innovation, consumers must also recognize the economic realities and be prepared to contribute to the sustainability of this vital sector.

By ensuring that telecom tariffs reflect the true cost of operation, we can secure a brighter, more connected future for all Nigerians.

— Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Telecom operators in Nigeria, including major players like MTN, Airtel, and Glo, have long kept prices stable, even as the costs of fuel, electricity, and infrastructure maintenance have soared. In October, MTN’s CEO, Karl Toriola, painted a bleak picture: the industry is hemorrhaging money, relying on financial reserves to stay afloat. This is not a sustainable model.

NCC Introduces New Licensing Requirements to Boost Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

NCC Introduces New Licensing Requirements to Boost Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

 

As technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, staying ahead has become critical for industries, especially in telecommunications. Regulators like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are tasked with keeping up to ensure the telecom ecosystem thrives. In a major step forward, the NCC has outlined an updated list of licensing agreements aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s telecom industry, fostering innovation, and ensuring quality services for consumers.

One of the key areas the NCC is addressing is access to connectivity. For instance, the Wholesale Wireless Access license allows companies to offer large-scale wireless services to meet the growing demands for data and internet access. Alongside this, the Open Access Fibre Infrastructure license supports the expansion of high-speed broadband, ensuring Nigerians benefit from faster and more reliable internet connections.

The Commission also places a strong emphasis on Value Added Services (VAS), which enhance telecom offerings beyond basic calls and texts. Licenses in this category include those for services like mobile content creation, special numbering solutions, and customer support systems via call centers. These licenses are critical for businesses looking to innovate and deliver tailored solutions to Nigerian consumers.

Infrastructure is another area the NCC is targeting. Licenses for Submarine Cable Infrastructure & Landing Stations, National Carriers, and Unified Access Services are designed to create a strong backbone for telecom operations across the country. These licenses ensure that businesses and individuals alike have access to seamless and reliable communication networks.

The regulator is also accommodating niche services, such as vehicle tracking, trunk radio operations, and public payphone services, through specific licensing. Moreover, licenses for Internet Services and Internet Exchange Platforms highlight the NCC’s commitment to improving the country’s digital landscape, supporting both businesses and individuals in their daily connectivity needs.

To ensure a collaborative and competitive environment, the NCC has introduced licenses for Infrastructure Sharing and Collocation Services. These allow operators to share resources, such as towers and data centers, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

Beyond licensing documents, the NCC has introduced operational frameworks to guide the industry. For example, the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Licensing Framework provides a pathway for companies that want to offer telecom services without owning physical infrastructure. Similarly, the Accounting Separation Framework promotes transparency, helping operators separate costs and revenues for better accountability.

The NCC has also introduced innovative frameworks for high-speed connectivity, such as the 70/80GHz E-Band Licensing Framework, which is tailored for enterprise services and last-mile connectivity. Additionally, the Unified Access Service Framework simplifies the licensing process for operators offering a combination of telecom services.

By introducing these updated licenses and frameworks, the NCC is setting a bold vision for Nigeria’s telecom sector. The aim is to create a dynamic environment where businesses can thrive, consumers get better services, and Nigeria’s position as a tech hub in Africa is solidified.

These changes reflect the NCC’s commitment to driving progress and ensuring that the telecom industry keeps pace with global trends. Operators, innovators, and stakeholders are encouraged to explore the full list of requirements available on the NCC website, as they align with this new wave of technological advancement.