By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to deeper regional collaboration after hosting a high-level delegation from the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) in Abuja.
The visit focused on strengthening regulatory cooperation and advancing telecommunications integration across West Africa.
Building Regional Ties
During the engagement, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, Aminu Maida, stressed the importance of closer collaboration among telecom regulators in the sub-region.
Represented by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Planning, Strategy and Risk Management, Dr. Kelechi Nwankwo, Maida noted that stronger regulatory ties are essential for fostering digital growth and improving service delivery across member states.
He highlighted NCC’s continued participation in the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), describing regional cooperation as key to consumer protection and market development.
The Commission also reiterated its advocacy within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for the recognition of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as critical national infrastructure a status Nigeria has already adopted domestically to support sustainable growth.
Liberia Seeks Deeper Cooperation
Leading the Liberian delegation, Clarence K. Massaquoi, Chairman of LTA’s Board of Commissioners, described the engagement as vital to strengthening regulatory effectiveness across the region.
He noted that Nigeria’s size and influence make it a strategic partner in regional communications development.
Massaquoi disclosed that Liberia has signed bilateral agreements with The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire, and is in advanced discussions with Ghana and Guinea-Conakry to address cross border connectivity and roaming challenges.
He also requested NCC’s support in regulatory capacity building and in reviewing Liberia’s licensing framework to align with emerging technologies and regional standards.
Towards Seamless Connectivity
Both regulators agreed on the need to identify priority areas for collaboration and to translate discussions into actionable outcomes.
The engagement signals continued efforts by West African telecom authorities to promote seamless connectivity, harmonised regulations, and stronger digital economies across borders.
Industry observers note that enhanced regional cooperation could help address roaming costs, improve service quality, and accelerate digital inclusion in the sub-region.
