… But in 2025, its provisions need re-examination to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
It is with profound gratitude that I stand before you today, to deliver these opening remarks at this inaugural Colloquium convened by the House of Representatives Committee on Communications. It is indeed a landmark event that has been birthed through the symbiotic relationship between the different arms of government, which is also indicative of the synergy we have employed in regulating and managing Nigeria’s Communications Sector.
This gathering offers us a platform to both reflect on our past as well as collaborate to shape the future of communications in Nigeria. Our focus—the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003—represents a cornerstone of Nigeria’s telecommunications momentous evolution, and today, we are tasked with evaluating its impact, confronting its challenges, and charting a bold path toward a digitally inclusive and globally competitive Nigeria.
When the Nigerian Communications Act was enacted over two decades ago, it heralded a new era for our nation’s telecommunications sector. By dismantling monopolistic barriers and establishing a transparent, independent regulatory framework, the Act empowered the Commission to midwife a sector that has become a bedrock of Nigeria’s economic and social progress. The explosion in telecommunications services, its availability and enablement of transformational changes in the Sector, are fruits of this bold legislative initiative by the vibrant Nigerian legislature.
The numbers speak for themselves: mobile subscriptions have grown from less than300 thousand in 2001 to over 150 million today. Internet penetration has surged, connecting millions to the digital economy, while the telecommunications sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product has risen to approximately 13.94% as of the 3rd quarter of 2024. Beyond statistics, the Act has enabled transformative innovations—mobile banking, e-commerce, digital communications and digital education—that have redefined how Nigerians live, work, and interact. These milestones are a testament to the vision of the Act’s framers, the resilience of industry players, and the trust of Nigerian consumers. They reflect the power of collaboration between the legislature, regulator, operators, and stakeholders in building a sector that has become a global model for telecommunications liberalization in emerging markets.
Yet, as we celebrate these milestones, we must confront the reality that progress is not a destination but a journey—one that demands constant adaptation to an ever-evolving landscape. The global telecommunications industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by disruptive technologies such as 5G networks, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, the Internet of Things, and blockchain. These advancements promise unprecedented opportunities but also pose complex challenges.
In Nigeria, while urban centres enjoy robust connectivity, rural and underserved communities still grapple with limited access, highlighting the persistent digital divide. Infrastructure deficits, including inadequate power supply and the high cost of right-of-way approvals, are hindering network expansion. Cybersecurity threats loom larger as our reliance on digital platforms grows, with Nigeria recording a significant uptick in cyber-attacks targeting critical sectors.
Moreover, the economics of the telecommunications industry are under strain. Operators face rising operational costs, exacerbated by inflation, currency volatility, and the need for substantial capital investment to deploy next-generation technologies. Consumers, while demanding faster, cheaper, and more reliable services, often face affordability constraints, particularly in low-income communities. These challenges underscore a critical truth: while the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003 was visionary for its time, the realities of 2025 require us to re-examine its provisions to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
This Colloquium, therefore, is both timely and strategic. It offers a rare opportunity to take stock of the Act’s strengths, address its gaps, and reimagine its role in powering Nigeria’s digital future. The theme of this event—evaluating the Act’s impact, identifying challenges, and exploring future directions—resonates deeply with the Commission’s mandate to foster an enabling environment for innovation, competition, and consumer empowerment.
Distinguished guests, the task before us is monumental, but so is our collective resolve. The Commission stands ready to collaborate with the National Assembly, industry stakeholders, and international partners to translate today’s insights into actionable reforms. We envision a revised Nigerian Communications Act that not only addresses today’s challenges but anticipates tomorrow’s opportunities—a framework that positions Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy.
On behalf of the Commission, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the House of Representatives Committee on Communications for convening this Colloquium. Your leadership and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s telecommunications sector are a source of inspiration. I also commend all stakeholders present—operators, consumer advocates, academics, and technologists—for your tireless contributions to this industry. Together, we have built a sector that is the envy of many; together, we will build an even brighter future.
As we engage in today’s deliberations, I urge us to be bold in our ideas, pragmatic in our solutions, and unwavering in our commitment to the Nigerian people. Let us seize this moment to strengthen the foundations of our telecommunications sector and pave the way for a digital Nigeria that empowers every citizen, drives economic prosperity, and secures our place in the global community of nations.
Thank you for your attention, and may our discussions yield transformative outcomes for our beloved nation.
This speech was delivered by the executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission at the Colloquium on the Nigerian Communication Act 2003 organised by House of Representative Committee on Communications
