The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has declared that the future of Nigeria’s digital economy is already taking shape, emphasizing the critical role of the telecommunications sector in driving innovation, inclusion, and national development.
Dr. Maida made this assertion during the Stakeholders’ Forum on the Draft General Authorisation Framework for the Nigerian Telecommunications Industry held in Abuja on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
“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,” he stated.
Highlighting the progress made since the liberalization of the telecoms sector, the NCC boss noted that the country has achieved a tele-density of 79.65% and broadband penetration of 48.81% as of May 2025. He attributed this growth to the widespread adoption of mobile technologies, increased data consumption, and a growing appetite for digital services.
However, Dr. Maida stressed the need for a regulatory framework that responds effectively to the fast-evolving communications landscape. He said the new General Authorisation Framework is designed to provide an enabling environment for experimentation, market entry, and sustainable growth.
“As a catalyst for national development, Nigeria’s telecommunications industry has become a symbol of innovation and progress. It has revolutionized communication, improved access to information, and reshaped business operations,” Maida said.
He urged stakeholders to collaborate in strengthening the innovation value chain, encouraging local solutions, building investor confidence, and ensuring that the gains of digital transformation are equitably distributed across society.
The Stakeholders’ Forum brought together industry captains, telecom executives, innovators, tech entrepreneurs, and representatives of telecom associations to deliberate on the draft framework and shape the future of the nation’s telecom regulation.
NCC Boss expressed optimism that the engagement would refine the collective vision of stakeholders and accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation.
