NCC Targets $1 Billion Investments in Nigeria’s Telecom Sector, Vows Better Services
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its determination to attract over $1 billion worth of investments into Nigeria’s telecom industry before the end of this year.
The Commission also pledged to sustain a conducive business environment that encourages healthy competition among telecom operators and stakeholders, with a view to unlocking the sector’s hidden investment potential.
Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, made this known during an interactive session with media executives at the Marriott Hotel, Lagos.
Dr. Maida explained that the forum was designed for open discussions on developments within the industry, stressing that all necessary measures must be taken to drive significant investments into the sector.
Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in October 2023, Dr. Maida noted that the NCC’s primary stakeholders remain telecom consumers, government, and the media.
He revealed that while the Commission recently approved tariff adjustments for operators, it was done on the condition that service quality must improve. He further disclosed that the NCC had finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Works to curb indiscriminate road digging and cutting by telecom operators nationwide.
On enforcement, Dr. Maida admitted that the NCC occasionally relies on the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to address operational challenges due to insufficient staff strength for monitoring and compliance.
Highlighting key sectoral issues, he identified vandalism and damage to telecom infrastructure as major causes of erratic service delivery in parts of the country. He added that the Commission is working towards achieving high-speed, unlimited data services comparable to what is obtainable abroad.
He further explained that while technology used in the telecom sector is produced mainly in China, Finland, and Sweden, the ultimate goal is to achieve technological transfer to Nigeria through consistent policies and deliberate efforts.
On electoral matters, Dr. Maida clarified that the NCC is not in direct talks with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, but provides support to all relevant government agencies as required.
Earlier, Head of Public Affairs at the NCC, Mrs. Nnena Ukoha, welcomed the media executives and participants. She explained that the session was aimed at strengthening relationships with the media, whom she described as critical stakeholders. According to her, engagements of this nature allow for feedback and improve understanding of the Commission’s activities.
Mrs. Ukoha assured that the NCC remains committed to ensuring effective connectivity and implementing transformative policies that enhance the lives and businesses of Nigerians across the country.
