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In Nigeria, a dynamic and tech-savvy young population is eagerly harnessing the benefits of digital technologies, driving innovation and growth across the country. Driven by the rapid spread of internet access and a steady broadband penetration rate of around 43%, our digital economy is set for remarkable growth. This expansion will transform numerous sectors, enriching the nation through improved connectivity and advanced digital skills.
According to the press statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Dr Reuben Mouka, it states that Digital transformation is accelerating worldwide. The Covid-19 pandemic thrust remote work and virtual collaboration tools into the spotlight, making platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet indispensable for meetings, conferences, and teamwork. These tools remain crucial for modern collaboration.
E-commerce has revolutionized consumer behavior, making the process of ordering and receiving goods and services incredibly seamless. Even traditional brick-and-mortar businesses are adapting, incorporating digital solutions to enhance customer engagement and improve the overall shopping experience.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are undeniably transforming our lives across various domains. From enhancing education and revolutionizing healthcare delivery to improving daily living, public services, and energy management, these technologies are making a profound impact. Their integration is paving the way for smarter, more efficient, and connected experiences, fundamentally altering the way we interact with the world.
At the heart of the global digital revolution lies the critical foundation of telecommunications infrastructure. Universal, affordable, reliable, and high-speed telecom services are now seen as essential social rights. Mobile networks and data centers serve as the backbone of digital transformation, enabling vast data storage and processing capabilities. This infrastructure seamlessly integrates digital technologies across countless applications, driving progress and innovation worldwide.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” promises a brighter future by empowering youth and women through emerging sectors like the digital economy. As part of this vision, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, unveiled a strategic blueprint titled “Accelerating our Collective Prosperity through Technical Efficiency.” This plan aims to boost Nigeria’s economic growth by leveraging digital innovation to enhance productivity, underscoring the administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable development.
Recognizing the vital role of resilient telecommunications infrastructure in bolstering a robust digital economy, Dr. Tijani’s Strategic Agenda for 2023-2027 outlines ambitious targets. By the end of 2024, the agenda aims for a 50% improvement in Quality of Service (QoS). Broadband penetration is set to soar to 70% by the end of 2025, accompanied by data download speeds of 25Mbps in urban areas and 10Mbps in rural zones.
By the close of 2026, the strategy plans to extend coverage to at least 80% of Nigeria’s population, prioritizing underserved
and unserved regions. Furthermore, it targets a significant reduction in the number of unconnected rural Nigerians, slashing it from 61% to under 20% by 2027. The agenda also aspires to catalyze a 300% to 500% surge in broadband investment by the end of the period.
Building on the Ministry’s Strategic Agenda, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has outlined three pivotal Strategic Focus Areas for the Commission: the Consumers, the Industry and Licensees, and the Government. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the consumer experience, foster industry growth, ensure regulatory compliance, and strengthen government collaboration, reflecting a balanced commitment to all stakeholders in the communications sector.
Dr. Maida’s strategy for advancing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda hinges on acknowledging the diverse perspectives and sometimes conflicting expectations of stakeholders. This recognition serves as the compass guiding the Commission’s efforts to navigate through a landscape rich with intricacies and paradoxes, ensuring that each stakeholder’s voice is heard and considered in shaping the agenda’s implementation.
In his quest, he navigated a labyrinth of interests, delicately weaving a tapestry of compromises to satisfy every stakeholder’s desires without sacrificing expectations.
In Dr. Maida’s paradigm, consumers reign supreme. He doesn’t just aim for technical excellence; his focus transcends the metrics of Quality of Service to ensure consumers bask in an elevated Quality of Experience. It’s not about checkboxes; it’s about crafting moments that resonate long after the service ends, a symphony of satisfaction orchestrated for every consumer.
Imagine embarking on a telecom journey, where every interaction, from choosing the service to eventually parting ways, is a carefully curated experience. It’s a seamless voyage, starting with selecting the perfect plan, smoothly transitioning through onboarding, usage, and receiving top-notch support whenever needed. Even the farewell, when it’s time to move on, is handled with the same level of care and attention. Quality of experience isn’t just a destination; it’s the scenic route that ensures every touchpoint leaves a lasting impression of excellence.
In today’s digital landscape, consumers wield the power to choose their network, effortlessly onboard, relish top-notch service at reasonable prices, experience responsive customer care, and securely transition if they decide to switch networks. It’s a world where empowerment meets seamless connectivity, ensuring a journey marked by choice, quality, and peace of mind
In a bid to tackle consumer grievances regarding data depletion, the Commission has mandated Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to undergo an impartial audit of their billing systems. Simultaneously, a consultation process is nearing its conclusion, aimed at streamlining tariff plans for consumers. These proactive measures are set to usher in a new era of transparency, assuring customers of a fair and comprehensible mobile service experience.
Dr. Maida’s Commission has revolutionized data collection for Quality-of-Service delivery by focusing on granular insights from operators. Rather than a broad national approach, they analyze minute, local-level data to tailor solutions and regulations precisely where needed, ensuring optimized service deployment.
Dr. Maida’s tenure at the Commission has ignited a fervent dedication to fortifying the industry and refining regulatory services. Under his leadership, a concerted effort has been made to address industry debt concerns with unprecedented seriousness, signaling a transformative era in the Commission’s approach.
In a bold move to reshape the telecommunications landscape, the initiative has launched impactful advocacy campaigns tackling sector-wide issues. Among these efforts is a push to classify telecom infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, a crucial step in safeguarding its integrity. Furthermore, the campaign has scored victories by convincing over six states to waive Right of Way fees, with discussions underway to secure similar agreements in more states. This strategic advocacy underscores a commitment to navigating long-term challenges and fostering a more robust telecommunications ecosystem for all
Dr. Maida leads the Commission, actively collaborating with the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms to tackle the telecoms sector’s myriad taxation challenges, fostering engagement and synergy between the two entities.
The Commission is actively revising its regulatory instruments and licensing frameworks to keep pace with industry trends. Quality of Service Regulations are being updated to include essential Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 5G and other vital participants, ensuring optimal service standards. This comprehensive review ensures that the industry remains aligned with current realities and poised for future advancements.
Conclusively, in its quest to fulfill the Ministry’s vision of igniting economic growth through technological innovation and providing Nigerians with renewed hope, the Commission is diligently ensuring high-speed internet connectivity, meeting QoS KPIs, and fostering a resilient telecommunications industry. This commitment reflects a vibrant journey towards a future brimming with possibilities and prosperity for all.
