NCC unveils flexible licensing model to unlock pathways for digital growth

By Olakunle Oke

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a pioneering regulatory model designed to spur innovation and expand access across the country’s rapidly advancing telecommunications sector.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement forum on Wednesday, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, presented the new General Authorisation Framework, describing it as a dynamic licensing approach tailored to accommodate emerging technologies and encourage responsible experimentation.

Dr Maida characterised the growth of Nigeria’s telecoms sector as “phenomenal”, referencing a tele-density of 79.65 per cent and broadband penetration of 48.81 per cent as of May 2025. Despite this progress, he underlined the importance of adopting a regulatory posture that encourages, rather than restrains, technological progress.

“We are at a turning point where innovation requires regulation that enables growth,” he stated.

The framework introduces three key instruments: Proof-of-Concept (PoC) pilots, Regulatory Sandboxes, and Interim Service Authorisations. These mechanisms are designed to support both startups and established players in testing innovative ideas under real-world conditions, especially those not yet covered by traditional licensing categories.

Use cases for the new framework include emerging technologies such as Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN), dynamic spectrum sharing, 5G applications, and artificial intelligence-driven networks.

While unveiling the initiative, Dr Maida also noted that regulation on its own cannot deliver sector-wide transformation. He invited collaboration from a broad range of stakeholders, including telecoms operators, infrastructure companies, academia, and civil society groups, to help shape and fine-tune the framework.

“Your input is vital to ensuring this approach delivers real value for Nigeria,” he said.

He reiterated the NCC’s commitment to building a digitally inclusive Nigeria and called on stakeholders to support inclusive innovation, particularly efforts that empower young people, women, and underserved communities.

“The future of Nigeria’s digital economy is already taking shape, and the communications sector sits at its core,” Dr Maida remarked, calling for a united effort to leverage innovation for long-term national development.