Nigeria’s ICT Regulatory Landscape Reviewed in New Report by NCC and ITU

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a new report examining the country’s approach to regulating the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The report, titled “ITU Collaborative Regulation Report on Nigeria,” is the result of a collaboration between the NCC, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Officially launched on July 22nd, 2024, at the NCC Mbora Annex Office, the report was presented by the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. It delves into Nigeria’s regulatory framework for ICT, highlighting the collaborative efforts undertaken to ensure a robust and thriving digital ecosystem.

The launch ceremony featured a keynote address by Dr. Bosun Tijani, who emphasized the evolving role of the NCC. “Just 15-20 years ago,” Dr. Tijani remarked, “the NCC’s focus was solely on regulating the telecommunications sector.” He continued, “Today, the NCC regulates the very foundation upon which any economy can prosper. In today’s world, no nation can achieve prosperity without a strong foundation in communications technology.”

This report serves as a crucial and valuable resource for understanding the regulatory framework governing Nigeria’s telecom sector. It offers valuable insights for stakeholders, including mobile network operators, internet service providers, and policymakers. It also  provides insights into the regulatory landscape and highlights areas for potential improvement. By analyzing current practices and highlighting areas for potential improvement, the report can serve as a roadmap for fostering a more progressive and efficient regulatory environment.

By collaborating with international organizations like the ITU and receiving support from the FCDO, the NCC demonstrates its commitment to fostering a progressive and efficient regulatory environment that can propel Nigeria’s digital transformation.

The report is available for download at the following link: https://www.itu.int/hub/publication/d-pref-them-33-2023/

This launch signifies a significant step forward in Nigeria’s journey towards a fully developed and well-regulated ICT sector. The insights gleaned from this report can be instrumental in shaping future policies and promoting a vibrant digital economy for the nation.