NCC Unveils New Licensing Framework to Boost Innovation as Broadband Penetration Hits 49%

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a new draft General Authorisation Framework (GAF) aimed at accommodating emerging technologies and accelerating innovation in the telecommunications sector. This move comes as broadband penetration in Nigeria reaches 48.81% and teledensity climbs to 79.65%, signaling strong growth in digital connectivity. The draft framework was presented during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja.

Speaking at the forum, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida, represented by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, stated that the telecom industry has undergone a major transformation since its liberalisation 24 years ago. The new licensing model, he said, is critical to staying ahead of rapid technological advancements and is designed to be both responsive and enabling.

The framework introduces three key regulatory instruments: the Proof-of-Concept (PoC) pilot to test new ideas in real settings, a Regulatory Sandbox for controlled service trials, and an Interim Service Authorisation (ISA) for innovations not covered by existing licensing models. These tools are meant to encourage innovation while ensuring public interest and consumer protection remain intact.

Director of Licensing and Authorisation, Usman Mamman, explained that the framework was developed following a review of recent service applications that fell outside traditional licence categories. Drawing inspiration from global models such as Ofcom’s Sandbox (UK) and Singapore’s IMDA testbeds, the NCC tailored the policy to address Nigeria’s unique telecom environment while aligning with national digital economy strategies.

Importantly, the new framework integrates data protection, customer rights, and market fairness safeguards. It supports key national policies like the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, National Broadband Plan, and the Nigerian Communications Act 2003. The NCC is now calling on stakeholders to submit feedback to fine-tune the proposal, reinforcing its goal to establish an adaptive and inclusive licensing regime capable of driving Nigeria’s transition to a fully digital economy.

Source: The Sun