The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, has canvassed a revised communications law in line with modern trends.
At the opening of the Colloquium on the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, in Lagos, Maida said the law must evolve to address current industry challenges and position Nigeria as a global digital leader.
The event, organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Communications, brought together stakeholders to assess the two-decade-old Act.
Describing the gathering as a landmark moment, Maida emphasized collaboration among government bodies and industry players in shaping the sector’s future.
He noted that the 2003 Act laid the foundation for a transparent and independent regulatory system that has propelled telecom growth in Nigeria.
“Mobile subscriptions have grown from less than 300,000 in 2001 to over 150 million today,” he said. “The sector now contributes about 13.94% to Nigeria’s GDP as of Q3 2024.”
Maida highlighted innovations the Act enabled, including mobile banking, e-commerce, digital education, and communications, which have redefined daily life in Nigeria.
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However, he stressed that the industry now faces new realities. Technologies like 5G, AI, quantum computing, IoT, and block chain are transforming the global landscape and creating new regulatory challenges.
Connectivity gaps persist in rural areas, and the sector struggles with power shortages, infrastructure costs, cyber threats, and economic pressures.
“Progress is not a destination, but a journey,” he said. “It’s time to reassess the law to reflect the realities of 2025.”
He praised the initiative of the House Committee in organizing the event and commended the contributions of industry stakeholders, academics, and consumer advocates.
Maida reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to fostering innovation, competition, and consumer protection through inclusive reforms.
“As we discuss the future,” he urged, “let’s be bold, practical, and dedicated to building a digital Nigeria that empowers all citizens.”
Crediblenewsng.com
