In view of the observed uncertainty of the telecoms regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in raising telecoms tariff so that Main Network Operators (MNOs) can return to profit lane in order to drive fresh investments in the sector, there are strong indications that the hopes of extending services to both unserved and underserved in 2025 may yet, be another failed target.
Business Hilights recalls that in September last year, NCC hinted that it is working with major stakeholders in the telecoms industry to ensure improved broadband access for Nigerian telecoms subscribers with 25 Mbps minimum speed in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas by 2025.
However, and as things are, it is no more clear if the ‘working together’ is still active or in Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This is because every MNO is currently crying of inability to make profit with the prevailing tariff regime.
Analysts say it is only when companies are making profit that the sense of expansion and extending services to either unserved or underserved will begin to show up at Board meetings.
Only recently, the lead umbrella body for stakeholders; ALTON issued a statement saying there is no more time even to seat and deliberate for tariff increase as many telecom firms are in the verge of collapse due to a tariff regime that is inconsistent with current reality.
Already, the MTN CEO, Mr. Karl Toriola recently called for 100% increase in tariff to put the telecoms sector in recovery path, but in all these clamours, the regulator has remained adamant.
Rewinding back into September last year, the Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, in his paper presentation titled ‘NCC’s Vision to Impact Nigeria’s Economic Recovery’ at the WorldStage Economic Summit (WES) 2024 held in Lagos, stressed that the National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025 is a major hub of the commission’s strategy.
Maida described broadband as the bedrock of economic recovery, enabling innovation, and fostering economic activities across all sectors.
Represented at the Summit by the commission’s Zonal Controller, Lagos, Mr Tunji Jimoh, the industry regulatory chief maintained that the commission was committed to expanding broadband infrastructure and creating an enabling environment for both local and foreign investments in the telecommunications sector.
Maida described digital transformation as a catalyst for economic growth, which is not a choice but required for the nation’s sustainable economic growth.
He clarified: “To this end, the Commission has been committed to building a robust digital economy that will drive inclusive growth, create jobs, and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses on a global scale.
“The National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020-2030) of the Federal Government outlines a clear roadmap to achieving these goals, prioritizing broadband penetration, digital literacy, and the development of a vibrant digital ecosystem.
“The Strategic Blueprint of the Minster of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy also provides the needed thrust on this journey. The Blueprint is a detailed and progressive framework that encompasses five key pillars: Knowledge, Policy, Infrastructure, Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Capital, and Trade. Knowledge is the cornerstone upon which innovation thrives and is built upon the bedrock of sound policies. Infrastructure provides the essential backbone for a thriving digital economy, while innovation and entrepreneurship drive economic diversification. The trade pillar connotes our commitment to global collaboration and partnerships, recognising that innovation knows no borders.
“Drawing from this this blueprint, the Commission has outlined its Strategic Focus Areas, recognizing that each of its stakeholders – the Consumers, the Licensees and Industry, and the Government – holds a unique perspective and has distinct expectations from the Commission. The Commission’s strategic vision is therefore guided by the objective of meeting the specific expectations of each stakeholder group.
“In line with the Ministerial Strategic Vision Plan, the Commission is deepening the digital terrain by supporting digital economy initiatives of different organizations and institutions across the country. These interventions range from conferences, summits, regional tech gatherings, digital/tech-inclined trainings, and talent hunts to youth entrepreneurship and empowerment programmes. Deliberate efforts have been set to support and participate in timely knowledge sharing events on the digital economy, and workshops on emerging technologies while conducting series of studies on Incubation and Innovation Hubs, Digital Entrepreneurship, Technological Innovations, and Indigenous Content in the Telecommunications Sector amongst others”, the EVC added
