NCC pushes for Nigerian Communications Act review to align with Nigeria’s digital future 

Speaking at a Colloquium held on Tuesday in Lagos, Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said the two-decade-old law has become increasingly disconnected from the demands of today’s tech-driven economy.

Maida highlighted that transformative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, and blockchain are driving structural changes in the communications sector.

However, the current Act does not fully address the opportunities and risks posed by these innovations.

“The reality of 2025 demands we reimagine Nigeria’s digital future. A revised Communications Act must anticipate opportunities, not merely respond to challenges,” Maida said.

He also noted that the law needs to address persistent challenges, including poor power supply, costly Right of Way (RoW) approvals, rising operating expenses, and limited broadband reach in rural areas.

The NCC boss commended the National Assembly for spearheading the review process and pledged the Commission’s continued partnership with lawmakers, industry players, and international partners to design a future-ready regulatory framework.

He called on stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and offer insights that will inform policy reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

Also speaking at the event, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Deputy Whip Isiaka Ayokunle, said the communications sector remains critical to Nigeria’s economic and social development.

The event, themed “The Nigerian Communications Act 2003: 22 Years After — Challenges, Opportunities and Future Directions for a Digital Nigeria”, brought together lawmakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to examine the Act’s relevance in a fast-changing digital landscape.

The two-day colloquium is expected to produce robust discussions among experts, legislators, and industry leaders. Outcomes from the sessions will help shape a modern legal framework that supports Nigeria’s ambition to become a globally competitive digital economy.