By Ameh Gabriel
ABUJA – The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has presented the report of its Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) on eight subsidiary legislations, marking a pivotal step in enhancing regulatory transparency and reinforcing stakeholder inclusion in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The presentation, held in Abuja, showcased the Commission’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking and participatory regulation aimed at creating a more robust, consumer-centric, and innovation-driven telecom ecosystem.
Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, described the RIA as a key milestone that aligns with the Commission’s strategic priorities placing consumers at the core, supporting licensees and the broader market, and meeting government policy objectives.
“Consumers are at the heart of our regulatory efforts,” Maida said. “This RIA assesses how these subsidiary legislations impact consumer satisfaction, Quality of Experience (QoE), and overall industry dynamics. It also aims to lower market entry barriers, promote fair competition, and enhance resource optimization.”
He noted that the RIA further evaluated how these legislations support national goals by ensuring that regulatory policies not only align with Nigeria’s economic aspirations but also attract sustainable investments and foster innovation in the sector.
The assessment, which featured extensive stakeholder consultations, provided a platform for telecom operators, consumers, civil society, and government agencies to contribute insights and recommend improvements. According to Maida, this inclusive process ensures that emerging regulations remain responsive, adaptable, and beneficial to all stakeholders.
“This process represents an innovative regulatory approach, where public feedback plays a central role in shaping policies. It guarantees that our rules reflect current realities and anticipate future challenges,” he added.
The forum also offered participants the opportunity to deliberate on the RIA’s findings and recommendations. Discussions were geared towards refining the NCC’s regulatory approach and strengthening the alignment of its policies with the fast-evolving telecommunications landscape.
“Today’s engagement enables us to recalibrate our regulatory strategies in response to stakeholder expectations,” Maida concluded. “We urge all participants to contribute meaningfully so we can collectively build a sustainable, competitive, and forward-looking telecom industry.”
The RIA presentation marks a critical step toward ensuring that the NCC’s regulatory instruments continue to drive growth, protect consumer rights, and position Nigeria’s telecom sector for long-term success.
