By Adedapo Adesanya

In a consultation paper released to the public, the commission said it is seeking input from stakeholders, including telecom operators, tech companies, legal experts, and the general public, on proposed revisions designed to reposition Nigeria’s telecommunications framework to match current digital demands. Submissions are expected by March 20, 2026.

The NTP 2000 marked a turning point in Nigeria’s telecom landscape. It replaced the 1998 policy, introducing full liberalisation and a unified regulatory framework under the NCC, and paved the way for the licensing of GSM operators such as MTN, Econet (now Airtel), and Globacom in 2001 and 2002.

Prior to the NTP, the sector was dominated by Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), a government-owned monopoly plagued by obsolete equipment, low teledensity, and poor service. At the time, Nigeria had fewer than 400,000 telephone lines for the entire country.

However, the NCC noted that just as the 1998 policy was overtaken by global developments, the 2000 framework has become structurally misaligned with today’s telecom reality, which encompasses broadband, 5G networks, satellite internet, artificial intelligence, and a thriving digital economy worth billions of dollars.

“The rapid pace of technological change and emerging digital services necessitate a comprehensive update to ensure the policy continues to support economic growth while protecting critical infrastructure,” the Commission stated.

The review will target multiple chapters of the policy. Key revisions include: Enhancements on online safety, content moderation, digital services regulation, and improved internet exchange protocols; a modern framework for satellite harmonisation, coexistence with terrestrial networks, and clearer spectrum allocation to boost service quality, and policies to address fiscal support, reduce multiple taxation, and lower operational costs for operators.

The NCC is also proposing entirely new sections to the policy to address emerging priorities. Among the key initiatives are clear broadband objectives aimed at achieving 70 per cent national broadband penetration, with a focus on extending connectivity beyond urban centres to reach rural communities.

The review also seeks to formally recognise telecom infrastructure, including fibre optic cables and network masts, as Critical National Infrastructure to prevent vandalism and enhance security.

In addition, the commission is targeting the harmonisation of Right-of-Way charges across federal, state, and local governments, alongside the introduction of a one-stop permitting process for telecom deployment, designed to reduce bureaucratic delays and lower operational costs for operators.

According to the NCC, the review aims to make fast and affordable internet widely accessible. “The old framework was largely voice-centric. Today, data is the currency of the digital economy,” the commission said, highlighting the need to close the urban-rural broadband divide.

The consultation process is intended to gather diverse perspectives to ensure the updated policy reflects current technological trends, market realities, and consumer needs. By doing so, the NCC hopes to maintain the telecommunications sector’s role as a key driver of economic growth and digital inclusion.

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, says the Nigerian government is assessing MTN Group’s acquisition of IHS Towers to ensure the deal aligns with Nigeria’s telecommunications development goals.

On Tuesday, MTN Group said it has agreed to acquire the remaining 75.3 per cent stake in IHS Holding Limited in an all-cash deal valued at $2.2 billion. The deal will be funded through the rollover of MTN’s existing stake of around 24 per cent in IHS, as well as about $1.1 billion in cash from MTN, roughly $1.1 billion from IHS’s balance sheet, and the rollover of no more than existing IHS debt.

Mr Tijani, in a statement, said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has spent the past two years strengthening the telecom sector through policy clarity, regulatory support, and engagement with industry stakeholders, boosting investor confidence and sector performance.

“Recent financial results from key operators show improved profitability, increased investment in telecoms infrastructure, and operational stability across the sector,” he said.

“These gains reflect the resilience of the industry and the impact of government reforms.”

The minister added that telecommunications infrastructure is critical for national security, economic growth, financial services, innovation, and social inclusion.

“We will undertake a thorough assessment of this development with relevant regulatory authorities to review its impact on the sector,” Mr Tijani said.

He added that the review aims to ensure market consolidation or structural changes, protect consumers, safeguard investments, and preserve the long-term sustainability of the telecom industry.

Mr Tijani also said the government remains committed to maintaining a stable and forward-looking policy environment to keep Nigeria’s telecommunications sector strong and sustainable, in line with the administration’s broader digital economy vision.

Upon completion, the transaction will see MTN transition from being a minority shareholder in IHS to a full owner. It will also see IHS exit from the New York Stock Exchange and become a wholly owned subsidiary of MTN.

For MTN, the deal represents a decisive shift as data demand surges and digital infrastructure becomes increasingly strategic with a booming digitally-oriented youth population on the continent.

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

One of the players in the Nigerian gaming industry, Secure Electronic Technology (SET) Plc, has appointed Ms Leticia Otomewo as its acting secretary.

This followed the expiration of the company’s service contract with the former occupier of the seat, Ms Irene Attoe, on January 31, 2026.

A statement to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited on Thursday said Ms Otomewo would remain the organisation’s scribe in an acting capacity, pending the ratification and appointment of a substantive company secretary at the next board meeting.

She was described in the notice signed by the Managing Director of the firm, Mr Oyeyemi Olusoji, as “a results-driven executive with 22 years of experience in driving business growth, leading high-performing teams, and delivering innovative solutions.”

The acting secretary is also said to be “a collaborative leader with a passion for mentoring and developing talent.”

“The company assures the investing public that all Company Secretariat responsibilities and regulatory obligations will continue to be discharged in full compliance with the Companies and Allied Matters Act, applicable regulations, and the Nigerian Exchange Limited Listing Rules,” the disclosure assured.

Meanwhile, the board thanked Ms Attoe “for professionalism and contributions to the Company during the period of her engagement and wishes her well in her future endeavours.”