NCC’s 2024 RIA report outlines reforms for telecom growth, pledging improved consumer experience, fairer competition, and regulation fit for future tech

[dropcap]N[/dropcap]CC telecom reform blueprint has taken a significant leap forward as the Nigerian Communications Commission presented the 2024 Regulatory Impact Assessment, a key policy instrument designed to modernise telecom regulations and align them with emerging technologies and market trends.

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The comprehensive assessment reviewed eight core areas including SIM registration, licensing, spectrum trading, subscriber management, enforcement procedures, and infrastructure sharing.

The aim is to enhance regulatory relevance and adaptability in a sector rapidly evolving through innovations like 5G, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ gathering in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, said the RIA marks a new chapter in participatory regulation.

“This is an innovation in the Commission’s rule-making process and another avenue for participatory regulatory engagement with all stakeholders,” he said.

Maida explained that the exercise was structured around three pillars: the consumer, the market, and the government.

He emphasised that the Commission’s top priority remains the improvement of user experience and end-user satisfaction.

“It goes without saying that the commission places consumers at the centre of its regulatory priorities,” he said.

He added that the RIA evaluates how regulations affect consumer protection and market dynamics, while also ensuring they foster fair competition and lower entry barriers.

The Commission acknowledged that existing regulatory tools must evolve to reflect the realities of digital inclusion, national development objectives, and innovation-driven growth.

Maida noted that the RIA reflects a commitment to ensuring that regulation stays agile, transparent and responsive.

“This evaluation is crucial for determining how adaptable and agile our regulations are in promoting competition, lowering entry barriers, and ensuring effective use of scarce resources,” he added.

Feedback from operators, civil society groups, and policy experts is being incorporated into future legislative updates.

The Commission stressed that stakeholder input will guide upcoming amendments to ensure that regulation supports public interest while encouraging innovation.

“The essence of the Regulatory Impact Assessment is to give stakeholders across the telecoms ecosystem a chance to assess regulations,” Maida said.

“When drafted properly, these regulations safeguard the public interest, stimulate innovation, and attract investment.”

The RIA also aligns with federal goals on digital transformation, and will help consolidate Nigeria’s ambition to remain a competitive player in the global telecom space.

“Let us therefore scrutinise rigorously, listen to diverse viewpoints respectfully, and remain focused on the ultimate goal: building a regulatory framework that promotes growth and ensures market sustainability,” Maida stated.

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He urged all stakeholders to provide honest and practical input, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to fostering a fair, transparent and future-ready telecom ecosystem.