Nearly three decades after Nigeria introduced its current telecommunications framework, the Nigerian Communications Commission has launched a comprehensive review of the National Telecommunications Policy 2000 to bring it in line with modern technology and market developments.
The regulator disclosed that it has begun the process by issuing a consultation document and inviting industry players, investors, and other stakeholders to contribute recommendations for revising the policy.
According to the Commission, the existing framework has struggled to keep pace with fast-changing trends in digital services, broadband penetration, satellite systems, and internet governance. The planned update is intended to reposition the sector to better support innovation, wider access, and sustained economic growth.
The NCC explained that the 2000 policy itself had been created to replace an older system that was no longer effective. That reform followed the 1998 framework and introduced sweeping changes such as market liberalisation, broader industry consultation, and centralized regulation under the Commission.
Adopted during Nigeria’s early democratic years, the policy marked the country’s transition from heavy state control to a competitive, private-sector-led telecom environment.
Describing the situation before liberalisation, the Commission stated:
“Prior to the liberalisation, midwifed by the NTP, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector was dominated by the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited, which was a government-owned monopoly.
“NITEL was reputably characterized by obsolete equipment, poor quality of service and low teledensity,”
Despite the successes recorded since then, the regulator said the current framework has become outdated, just as earlier policies once were, especially given the rise of digital platforms, broadband-based applications, and new technologies such as non-terrestrial networks.
The introduction of the telecom policy in the early 2000s triggered major industry milestones, including the licensing of GSM operators between 2001 and 2002. That decision rapidly expanded mobile access across the country and revealed strong consumer demand for communication services.
Mobile subscriptions soon overtook fixed lines, transforming the market structure. The reforms also laid the foundation for the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which strengthened the Commission’s regulatory authority.
Since then, the telecom sector has grown into one of Nigeria’s most dynamic industries, attracting substantial foreign investment and contributing significantly to national output. The Commission noted that the policy helped enable the rise of online commerce, digital payments, and broader participation in the digital economy.
As part of the review, the NCC is proposing updates to several sections of the policy to reflect today’s realities.
Plans include revising the chapter dealing with internet services to address issues such as online safety, internet exchange systems, and clearer rules for digital platforms and content management.
Another key area under consideration is satellite communications, where the regulator intends to introduce updated guidelines covering service delivery, spectrum coordination, and the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial technologies to improve nationwide connectivity.
The financing framework for the sector will also be reassessed, with attention given to fiscal and monetary measures that could stimulate further investment. The Commission is seeking feedback on ways to address persistent concerns like multiple taxation and overlapping regulatory requirements.
Beyond modifying existing provisions, the NCC is considering adding a new chapter dedicated to broadband expansion targets, safeguarding critical telecom infrastructure, harmonising right-of-way charges across governments, and simplifying permits for network deployment through a single-window approval system.
Through the consultation process, the Commission hopes to gather broad input that will help shape a modern policy capable of supporting Nigeria’s next phase of digital transformation.
Source: https://www.thepointng.com/ncc-moves-to-update-nigerias-telecom-policy-after-26-years/
