2-Day Colloquium: NCC Sets to Review Nigerian Communication Act 2003

2-Day Colloquium: NCC Sets to Review Nigerian Communication Act 2003

Yesterday, well meaning Nigerians, law makers and communications giants gathered for a pivotal 2-day colloquium focused on reviewing and advancing the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.

Among the distinguished participants were Hon. Midala Balami, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Communications; Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC); Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives; Hon. Peter Akpatason, Chairman of the House Committee on Communications; and Barr. Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management at NCC.

The colloquium served as a platform to deliberate on a new legislative agenda that addresses the evolving needs of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital and communications landscape. It highlighted the importance of collaborative governance between lawmakers and regulators in shaping policies that foster innovation, protect consumer interests, and enhance the nation’s digital economy.

Dr. Maida expressed concern over enduring barriers, including inadequate power supply, high Right of Way (RoW) costs, and escalating operational expenses — all of which limit infrastructure rollout in rural and underserved regions.

He added that cybersecurity threats and rising capital requirements further complicate the sector’s sustainability, while the current legislation lacks the depth to handle Nigeria’s increasingly digital economy.

Maida commended the National Assembly for initiating the dialogue and pledged the NCC’s readiness to collaborate with lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and global partners in crafting a forward-looking legal framework.

The event was tagged:p “The Nigerian Communications Act 2003: 22 Years After – Challenges, Opportunities, and Future Directions for a Digital Nigeria,” brought together leaders from government, the private sector, and civil society to explore policy reforms vital for Nigeria’s digital advancement.