By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, telecommunications operators and cybersecurity experts to address emerging digital threats and strengthen Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
The Commission made the call while presenting preliminary findings from its ongoing review of competition in Nigeria’s voice and data markets at its second stakeholder engagement forum on telecommunications market competition.
The forum, held last week, provided an opportunity for industry stakeholders to examine the findings, discuss market conditions and make recommendations that could guide future regulatory interventions.
The preliminary findings covered market definitions and areas where operators could potentially be identified as having Significant Market Power (SMP).
Speaking at the engagement, NCC’s Head of Competition and Tariff, Mrs Omotayo Mohammed, stressed that the reliability of the market assessment depended on the completeness, accuracy and consistency of industry data.
She explained that credible data was essential to ensuring that the study reflected actual market conditions and provided a reliable foundation for regulatory decisions.
According to the Commission, the review is designed to promote fair competition, expand universal access and support a more resilient and sustainable telecommunications industry.
Meanwhile, the NCC has intensified calls for coordinated action against emerging cybersecurity threats, particularly as artificial intelligence and other digital technologies continue to reshape the communications landscape.
The issue featured prominently at the second International Cybersecurity Conference 2026 in Abuja, which brought together government officials, industry leaders and cybersecurity professionals to discuss emerging threats and strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s digital resilience.
The conference, themed “Cyber Resilience in the Age of AI: Defending Minds, Networks and Nations,” examined the growing cybersecurity risks associated with artificial intelligence, digital networks and increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
The NCC’s Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, participated in discussions on strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, improving institutional cooperation and protecting critical digital infrastructure.
Stakeholders also emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts to secure telecommunications networks, protect digital users and maintain public confidence in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
The Commission’s position highlights the growing connection between effective telecommunications regulation, fair market competition and cybersecurity as Nigeria expands its digital infrastructure.
