By Gabriel Ameh
šAbuja | Media360Impact Report
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery in Nigeriaās telecommunications sector during an interactive media parley with journalists in Abuja.
Speaking at the engagement, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, commended the media for its critical role in shaping public understanding of the telecom industry and holding regulators accountable.
āThe reporting of the sector has been critical in helping us implement our policies and, most importantly, hold us accountable in service to the people,ā he said.
Maida explained that the Commission is deepening transparency through reforms in tariff regulation, corporate governance compliance, and the ongoing review of the National Telecommunications Policy, with a public engagement expected in June.
He also highlighted collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser to protect telecom infrastructure designated as critical national assets, noting that improved coordination has reduced incidents of infrastructure damage during construction activities.
On cybersecurity, he disclosed that the Commission is rolling out a framework that mandates telecom operators to meet minimum security standards and establish clear protocols for managing cyber incidents.
Despite these efforts, Maida admitted that quality of service remains a concern.
āWe are not yet where we want to be, but we are beginning to see the right signals,ā he stated.
Journalists Raise Key Concerns
The session became more engaging as journalists raised pressing questions affecting millions of Nigerians, ranging from rising telecom tariffs to national security concerns in the digital space.
High Tariffs:
Responding to concerns about rising telecom tariffs, the NCC leadership explained that tariff adjustments are guided by regulatory processes that balance consumer protection with industry sustainability. The Commission noted that cost pressures on operators such as inflation, forex challenges, and infrastructure costsāare considered, but insisted that all pricing must pass regulatory scrutiny to ensure fairness to consumers.
Citizensā Data Protection:
On data privacy, the Commission reassured Nigerians that protecting consumer data remains a top priority. It emphasized that telecom operators are required to comply with strict data protection regulations and cybersecurity standards. The NCC added that ongoing monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are in place to prevent breaches and penalise defaulters.
Safety of Minors on Social Media:
Addressing concerns about the exposure of minors to harmful content online, the Commission clarified that while social media platforms operate beyond direct NCC control, the regulator is actively collaborating with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to promote safer digital spaces. This includes advocacy for digital literacy, parental control measures, and policies that encourage responsible platform governance.
Tracking Criminal Activities Online:
On the question of why bandits and criminal elements are sometimes able to use social media to publicise their activities, the NCC explained that tracking such activities involves multiple agencies beyond the telecom regulator. The Commission noted that while telecom operators provide necessary support within the legal framework, enforcement and intelligence gathering fall primarily under security agencies.
The NCC, however, reiterated its collaboration with security institutions to ensure that digital platforms are not exploited for criminal purposes, stressing that lawful interception and surveillance must follow due process.
Stakeholder Engagement Emphasised
Earlier, the Head of Public Affairs at NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, described the forum as a platform for continuous stakeholder engagement, encouraging open and constructive dialogue on industry sustainability and resilience
.
Similarly, the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, praised journalists for their role in informing Nigerians and shaping conversations around digital connectivity.
āA well-informed press produces a well-informed public, and that is critical to driving real progress in the telecom sector,ā Makama said.
The Commission reiterated that the media remains a key partner in advancing Nigeriaās digital economy, pledging to sustain open engagement and responsiveness to public concerns.
