The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Wednesday has commenced a two-day Stakeholders’ Policy Review Workshop at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, to deliberate on the comprehensive review of the National Telecommunications Policy (NTP) 2000.
The workshop provides a strategic platform for industry players, policymakers, and regulators to evaluate the journey of the sector so far, celebrate key milestones, and map out the next frontiers for Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized that the communications sector has evolved from an isolated vertical industry into a foundational ecosystem powering all sectors of the nation’s economy.
Dr. Maida highlighted the urgent need for updated, robust policy frameworks governing emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Satellite Broadband, the Internet of Things (IoT), Critical National Information Infrastructure, Digital Sovereignty, Network Resilience, Sustainable Innovation, and Quality of Experience (QoE) for consumers.
Citing recent data from the GSMA, the EVC/CEO noted that the strategic digitization of core sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, transport, and trade is projected to contribute an additional 2 percent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He noted that this digital transformation is expected to unlock two million new jobs and generate 1.6 trillion naira in tax revenue for the economy.
He further stressed that modern regulatory tasks must expand concurrently to address pressing contemporary challenges, including cybersecurity, data governance, digital financing, and online safety.
The technical panel sessions of the workshop are actively exploring the evolution and legacy of the original NTP 2000, alongside strategies for bridging the digital divide through collaborative implementation.
Participants deliberated on building a resilient future that balances technological innovation with security and trust, drawing from international telecommunications policy approaches and global best practices.