NCC Pledges Deeper Reforms, Tackles Tariff, Cybersecurity, and Service Quality Concerns
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has reiterated its resolve to strengthen transparency, enforce accountability, and enhance service delivery across the country’s telecommunications sector.
This assurance was given by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Aminu Maida, during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, where he acknowledged the media’s vital role in shaping public discourse and ensuring regulatory oversight.
According to Maida, the Commission is advancing key reforms aimed at improving tariff regulation, reinforcing corporate governance standards, and updating the National Telecommunications Policy, with broader stakeholder consultations scheduled for June.
He further disclosed that the NCC is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to safeguard telecom infrastructure now classified as critical national assets. The collaboration, he noted, has already helped reduce cases of infrastructure damage, particularly during construction activities.
On cybersecurity, Maida revealed that a new regulatory framework is being introduced to compel telecom operators to meet baseline security requirements and adopt clear procedures for handling cyber incidents.
While acknowledging ongoing improvements, the NCC boss admitted that service quality remains below expectations but expressed optimism about gradual progress. “We are not yet at our desired level, but we are seeing encouraging signs,” he said.
The session also provided an opportunity for journalists to raise concerns affecting telecom users nationwide.
Addressing the issue of rising tariffs, the Commission explained that pricing adjustments are subject to strict regulatory oversight designed to strike a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring the sustainability of operators facing inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and rising operational costs.
On data protection, the NCC reassured Nigerians of its commitment to safeguarding consumer information, stressing that telecom operators are bound by stringent data protection and cybersecurity regulations, backed by continuous monitoring and enforcement.
Responding to concerns about minors’ exposure to harmful online content, the Commission noted that while social media platforms fall outside its direct regulatory control, it is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to promote digital literacy, parental safeguards, and responsible platform governance.
The Commission also clarified that tracking criminal activities online involves multiple security agencies, with telecom operators providing support within the confines of the law. It emphasized that all surveillance and interception activities must adhere strictly to due legal processes.
Earlier, the NCC’s Head of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, described the media engagement as part of ongoing efforts to deepen stakeholder dialogue and strengthen industry resilience.
Similarly, the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, commended journalists for their role in informing the public and driving meaningful conversations around digital connectivity.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining open communication with stakeholders, noting that sustained collaboration with the media is essential to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.
