The Nigerian Communications Commission has reported significant growth in the country’s telecommunications sector, with tele-density reaching 79.65% and broadband penetration standing at 48.81% as of May 2025.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, made this disclosure during the Stakeholders Forum on the General Authorisation Framework for the Nigerian telecoms industry held on Thursday.
He noted that this transformation has been driven by the liberalization of the sector over the past 24 years.
According to Maida, the sector’s development has been fuelled by the widespread adoption of mobile technologies, a surge in data consumption, and growing demand for digital services. He emphasized the importance of responsive and enabling regulation to maintain and build upon these advancements.
“Today, we are at a significant juncture, where disruptive innovations are accelerating the evolution of the communications ecosystem,” Maida said. “We are now at a turning point, where the nature of innovation demands a regulatory paradigm that is not only responsive but enabling.”
He stressed that regulatory approaches must evolve to support rather than hinder innovation. “This is an objective that lies at the core of NCC, latest initiative: the General Authorisation Framework,” he stated.
“This reform introduces a flexible and responsive regulatory licensing approach that is structured to embrace new and emerging services that fall outside the existing License Structure,” he added.
Maida further pointed out that while regulation is crucial, the collaboration of stakeholders is essential for the framework’s success. “You—our stakeholders—are central to the success of this framework,” he said. “Mobile Network Operators, Service Providers, Infrastructure Companies, OEMs, startups, civil society, and academia all have a role to play.”
“Your insights, your ideas, and your partnership are critical in refining this approach and making sure that it works for Nigeria,” he added.
He also called for inclusive development in the sector, ensuring that marginalized groups are not left behind. “As we look to the future, we must ensure that no one is left behind. That means expanding access, closing connectivity gaps, and empowering our youth, women, and The future of Nigeria’s digital economy is no longer distant.”
“It is unfolding right before us. And at the heart of this future is the communications sector—our shared infrastructure for innovation, inclusion, and economic advancement.”
“To sustain momentum, we must be bold, collaborative, and committed to building a resilient and innovative ecosystem. Through the General Authorisation Framework, we are unlocking new pathways for experimentation, market entry, and growth.”
