Charting a New Course for Nigeria’s Digital Future

Industry leaders have called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that its ongoing review of national telecommunications policy extends beyond connectivity targets. Speaking at Thursday’s National Telecommunications Policy (NTP) 2000 Review, experts emphasized the need for a digital economy strategy that unlocks broader transformation.

The current review marks the first major overhaul in 26 years, with previous targets largely exceeded thanks to increased competition, network expansion, and regulatory reforms. As Nigeria’s subscriber base continues to grow – exceeding 185 million users – policymakers face the challenge of aligning future policies with evolving digital needs.

Expanding Beyond Traditional Telecoms

Engineer Aliyu Aboki, Executive Secretary of the West Africa Telecommunication Regulators Assembly (WATRA), argued that telecommunications infrastructure is now a foundational economic asset. He stated: “Telecommunications infrastructure is no longer merely communications infrastructure; it is now a foundational economic infrastructure that enables commerce, innovation, productivity, governance, education, inclusion, entrepreneurship, and participation in the global digital economy.”

This view was echoed by Dr. Alma Nurshaikhova, Senior Digital Specialist at the World Bank, who emphasized the need for policies that reflect local market realities rather than imposing frameworks from developed countries.

Prioritizing National Needs

The review presents an opportunity to address critical gaps in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. Experts highlighted these key priorities:

  • Inclusive participation: Ensuring farmers, artisans, rural communities, and other underserved groups can access digital opportunities
  • Sector integration: Promoting the adoption of digital technologies across agriculture, healthcare, education, and other vital sectors
  • Local relevance: Designing policies that align with Nigeria’s unique context and linguistic diversity
  • Predictable regulation: Creating a stable framework that encourages investment and innovation

With ambitious targets like Project Bridge—aiming to lay 90,000 km of fiber nationwide—Nigeria has demonstrated its commitment to digital expansion. The challenge now lies in consistent execution and ensuring these initiatives translate into tangible benefits for all citizens.