By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a transparent, cost-based pricing framework for telecommunications infrastructure access, saying the initiative will encourage investment, expand broadband connectivity and accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation.
The Commission made this known during a stakeholder consultation on its ongoing study to develop a cost-based pricing methodology for communications infrastructure access.
According to the NCC, the proposed framework is designed to establish a fair, transparent and objective pricing system that will give investors and industry players greater confidence while supporting efficient infrastructure deployment across the country.
Speaking during the consultation, stakeholders noted that excessive or arbitrary infrastructure access charges could undermine the objectives of the Federal Government’s “Dig Once” initiative and discourage investment in broadband infrastructure.
They stressed that adopting a cost-based pricing model would promote transparency, improve regulatory certainty and create a more favourable business environment for telecommunications operators and infrastructure providers.
The proposed framework is expected to benefit mobile network operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), fibre infrastructure companies and other participants in Nigeria’s communications ecosystem by providing a predictable pricing structure for infrastructure access.
Participants at the forum reviewed the interim findings of the study and offered recommendations on the proposed pricing methodology, implementation strategy and cost elements that should be considered before the framework is finalised.
Discussions also focused on ensuring that the new policy strikes a balance between the interests of infrastructure providers, access seekers and consumers while supporting efficient network expansion.
The NCC said the consultation builds on previous stakeholder engagements and reflects the Commission’s commitment to implementing regulatory policies that encourage infrastructure sharing, promote broadband expansion and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.
The Commission added that continued collaboration with industry stakeholders will be critical to developing a pricing framework that supports sustainable investment and improves access to reliable digital infrastructure across the country.
