By Aminat Umar
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) kicked off a pivotal two-day Public Inquiry, drawing attention to three essential regulatory instruments. In his opening remarks, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, underscored the significance of this event. He emphasized the commission’s unwavering dedication to transparency and the active inclusion of stakeholders in the regulatory process. This initiative reflects NCC’s commitment to fostering an open dialogue and ensuring that the regulatory framework evolves with the input and collaboration of all relevant parties.
In his speech, Dr. Maida emphasized the crucial role of the inquiry in NCC’s strategy of fostering a consultative process. He highlighted how this approach ensures that industry regulations are crafted with extensive input from all stakeholders, promoting a well-rounded and inclusive regulatory framework.
He emphasized that the Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations, along with the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators and the Guidelines for Dispute Resolution, are crucial in promoting a competitive and efficient telecom industry in Nigeria. These regulations and guidelines ensure fair play, streamline operations, and provide a structured approach to resolving conflicts, thus driving the industry’s growth and sustainability.
At the NCC Headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Maida emphasized the urgent need to update and refine regulatory instruments to keep pace with technological advancements and align with global standards. He called on participants to engage in meaningful discussions to tackle the current challenges and needs of the communications sector. The inquiry aims to promote innovation, fair competition, and consumer protection, ensuring the telecommunications industry continues to evolve and meet the demands of the digital age.