Nigerian communications frameworks are struggling to keep up with the rapid advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain and 5G. In response, stakeholders are urging the Parliament to promote amendments to the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.
In a new report on “Signal Strength: Past, Present and Future of Communications in Nigeria,” SBM Intelligence said the current regulatory framework is outdated and insufficient for current digital reality.
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“NCA 2003, which was signed into law in July 2003, was a groundbreaking part of the law that liberalised the sector and established the NCC as an independent regulator,” SBM noted. “However, 22 years later, the act is widely regarded as “no longer in harmony with modern reality.”
Since the legislation was passed, the telecom ecosystem has evolved dramatically from 2G to 5G, an early conversation around 6G, with AI, IoT and blockchain technology becoming essential to the digital economy. However, NCA 2003 remains silent on these advances.
“We don’t address emerging technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) properly,” SBM said. “The digital space is evolving rapidly and presents an important opportunity to update regulations governing AI, 5G technology and over-the-top (OTT) services.”
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has already announced plans to amend the NCA to align the legislation with current and future innovations. According to Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman at NCC, the revised law covers emerging technologies, enhances cybersecurity and supports rural connectivity.
“We envision Nigerian communications laws that not only address today’s challenges, but also predict opportunities for tomorrow. This is the framework that positions Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy,” he said.
Beyond technology gaps, NCA 2003 is unable to address broader issues such as communication convergence, broadcasting, IT, and more. Digital disparity; high rights (row) costs. and multiple taxation. SBM emphasized that the amended law must strengthen the independence of the NCC, improve enforcement and resolve overlapping regulatory obligations.
“By addressing these areas, Congress aims to promote a more robust and investment-friendly operating environment for telecommunications companies,” SBM said.
He added that the amendment needs to be accelerated to create a substantial technology-neutral legal framework for the future that can adapt to rapid technological changes, drive innovation, and address emerging challenges such as cybersecurity, data governance, and service convergence.
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A House of Representatives review of the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003 provides important opportunities to modernize regulations, tackle challenges and align with global technological advances. The success of legislation could ease cost pressures on telcos, stabilize tariffs and promote Nigeria’s sustainable digital future.
“The new law should encourage measures to promote innovation, such as research and development initiatives, innovation hubs and partnerships with international organizations,” said Peter Akpatason, chairman of the House of Representatives Committee.
“This is the moment to reassess, recalibrate and reorganize Nigeria’s digital future with global best practices,” Maida added.
