The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a two-day Stakeholders’ Policy Review Workshop in Lagos to review the National Telecommunications Policy (NTP) 2000 in line with emerging realities in the digital space.
Stakeholders at the workshop are expected to assess milestones recorded in the telecommunications sector and outline fresh policy directions for Nigeria’s growing digital ecosystem.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said the communications sector has evolved beyond a standalone industry into a broad ecosystem driving national growth and innovation.
He stressed the need for forward-looking policy frameworks to address emerging technologies and trends such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), satellite broadband, Internet of Things (IoT), critical infrastructure protection, digital sovereignty and Quality of Experience (QoE).
According to Maida, the economic value of connectivity continues to expand across key sectors of the economy.
Citing projections by the GSMA, he said digitisation of agriculture, manufacturing, transportation and trade could contribute an additional two per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), create about two million jobs and generate N1.6 trillion in tax revenue.
The NCC boss also underscored the importance of integrating cybersecurity, data governance, digital financing and online safety into regulatory frameworks to sustain growth and strengthen public confidence in digital services.
He noted that the ongoing review of the telecom policy is aimed at ensuring Nigeria remains competitive and adequately prepared for the next phase of digital transformation.
