NCC Convenes Stakeholders’ Forum on Draft A2P Licensing Framework to Boost Telecommunications Sector
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently convened a virtual Stakeholders’ Forum to discuss the Draft A2P Licensing Framework. This framework is crucial for the telecommunications industry, as A2P messaging plays a vital role in sending notifications, such as bank alerts, healthcare reminders, and promotional campaigns, directly to consumers.
According to Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Ag. Head, Legal & Regulatory Services, A2P messaging has become the go-to platform for businesses to communicate with consumers, driving efficiency, enhancing communication, and supporting socio-economic development.
The NCC’s strategic focus centers on three key stakeholders: the government, consumers, and the industry. A2P messaging enables the government to communicate efficiently with citizens, provides consumers with timely and secure access to essential updates, and creates opportunities for businesses to innovate and drive competition.
However, the international A2P messaging space in Nigeria faces challenges, including consumer protection, fraud prevention, and ensuring industry fairness. To address these challenges, the NCC hosted the Stakeholders’ Forum, which aimed to create a sustainable and thriving A2P messaging ecosystem.
The Commission presented feedback from stakeholders and responses to their observations and recommendations. The NCC will continue to engage stakeholders ahead of the Final Draft of the A2P Messaging Services Licensing Framework, ensuring a participatory rule-making process.
By fostering innovation and ensuring a fair, transparent, and secure environment, the NCC aims to support the growth of the telecommunications sector and protect stakeholders’ interests.
