…critiques new licensing framework
Nigerian Communications Fee (NCC) has introduced that as of Might 2025, Nigeria has achieved a teledensity of 79.65% and broadband penetration of 48.81%.
Aminu Maida, Government Vice Chairman of the NCC, made the announcement throughout a stakeholders’ discussion board in Abuja, the place its launched a brand new draft licensing framework, the Normal Authorisation Framework.
This initiative is designed to foster innovation and assist the combination of rising applied sciences inside Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Maida, who was represented by Rimini Makama, the Government Commissioner for Stakeholder Administration, emphasised that the brand new framework is crafted to deal with the dynamic shifts within the digital economic system. It goals to assist startups, foster new service fashions, and embrace rising applied sciences.
He said, “We’re at a pivotal second the place the tempo of innovation requires a regulatory strategy that’s each enabling and future-focused.”
The draft introduces three new devices: the Proof-of-Idea for piloting improvements, the Regulatory Sandbox for managed testing, and the Interim Service Authorisation for companies that don’t match inside present licensing classes.
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Usman Mamman, Director of Licensing and Authorisation on the NCC, defined that the framework was developed based mostly on analysis and worldwide greatest practices, drawing from nations just like the UK and Singapore.
“This strategy will facilitate experimentation and accountable implementation whereas guaranteeing market integrity,” Mamman said, encouraging stakeholders to supply suggestions earlier than the ultimate model is launched.
Mohammed Yusuf, Head of Telecoms Legislation and Laws on the NCC, shared insights from stakeholders such because the Trade Shopper Advisory Discussion board (ICAF) and MTN Nigeria.
ICAF referred to as for clearer client safety measures, improved redress mechanisms, and limits on the scope of authorisations, whereas MTN raised issues over potential overlap between short-term and everlasting licences, looking for extra detailed tips.
Yusuf reassured individuals that the ultimate framework will incorporate stakeholder suggestions and be aligned with nationwide digital insurance policies.
The fee reiterated that the Normal Authorisation Framework continues to be a draft and is open to public overview.
