The rapid transformation of Africa’s digital space has prompted calls for a new approach to telecommunications regulation, with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), urging regulators across the continent to embrace stronger collaboration and data-driven decision-making.
Speaking in Abuja, NCC Executive Vice-Chairman, Aminu Maida, said African regulators must work together to build a network intelligence ecosystem capable of supporting evidence-based policies.
Maida made the call while opening a heads of regulators roundtable on the sidelines of the African Telecommunications Union, ATU, conference preparatory meeting. He noted that despite differences in legal structures, market sizes and national priorities, telecom regulators across Africa face similar challenges.
According to him, closer cooperation would allow regulators to exchange experiences, avoid duplication and develop common solutions to issues such as infrastructure resilience, investment, cybersecurity, satellite communications, affordability and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Maida said challenges faced by one regulator are often similar to those already experienced elsewhere on the continent, stressing the need for more deliberate and structured knowledge sharing.
He said the roundtable provides an opportunity for regulators to explore how data, market intelligence and evidence can improve policy decisions and strengthen the telecommunications sector.
Also speaking, NCC Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, said Africa’s digital communications landscape is becoming increasingly complex due to the rapid growth of broadband, satellite services, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital infrastructure.
She noted that traditional regulatory methods are no longer enough, adding that the major challenge for regulators is now turning available data into practical policies that address the needs of citizens and businesses.
The NCC said the discussions will help shape a more coordinated regulatory framework capable of supporting Africa’s digital growth and technological advancement.
