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Why Nigeria Needs Adequate Regulations As Digital Economy Beckons – EFCC Boss

The Executive Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has stressed the necessity for the establishment of strong regulatory measures for Nigeria to welcome the digital economy that is fast approaching.
Dr. Maida, at a stakeholders’ Forum on general Authorization framework for the country’s Telecoms industry today, July 17, said: “the future of Nigeria’s digital economy is no longer distant.
“It is unfolding right before us. And at the heart of this future is the communications sector—our shared infrastructure for innovation, inclusion, and economic advancement.”
The NCC Boss emphasized the necessity for modern regulation in the fast growing telecommunications technology, saying that it must be designed to enable innovation rather than hinder it.
He said that this has remained at the core of the Nigerian Communications Commission’s
latest initiative, which includes the General Authorisation Framework.
“This reform introduces a flexible and responsive regulatory licensing approach that is structured to embrace new and emerging services that fall outside the existing License Structure.
“The framework introduces three key instruments: Proof-of-Concept pilots to validate novel ideas in real-world environments, a Regulatory Sandbox, which allows innovators to test solutions—such as Open RAN trials, or dynamic spectrum sharing—under controlled and risk-managed conditions and an Interim Service Authorisation for services that do not yet fit within existing license categories.
Dr. Maida said that by adopting this approach, NCC is providing a platform for innovators of various sizes, whether they are startups or established companies, to demonstrate feasibility, assess risk and measure outcomes before deployment.

“This model encourages experimentation and responsible innovation while safeguarding consumer rights and public interest.”
He said however that regulation alone is not enough, adding that stakeholders should be central to the success of the framework.
“Mobile Network Operators, Service Providers,
Infrastructure Companies, OEMs, startups, civil society, and academia all have a role
to play.
“Your insights, your ideas, and your partnership are critical in refining this approach and making sure that it works for Nigeria.”
He assured that that no one is left behind, stressing that expanding access, closing connectivity gaps and empowering the youth, women and underserved communities through inclusive innovation.
“To sustain momentum, we must be bold, collaborative, and committed to building a
resilient and innovative ecosystem.
“Through the General Authorisation Framework, we are unlocking new pathways for experimentation, market entry, and growth.
“Let us work together to deepen the innovation value chain, nurture homegrown solutions, build investor confidence, and ensure that the dividends of digital transformation reach every corner of our society.
“It is my hope that today’s engagement will spark your curiosity, refine our collective
vision, and accelerate our journey towards a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Nigeria.”