In a major step toward fostering innovation and sustaining growth in Nigeria’s telecom industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a draft General Authorisation Framework (GAF) designed to accommodate emerging technologies and non-traditional services in the sector.
The framework was unveiled during a stakeholders’ forum held Thursday in Abuja, where the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the need for a forward-looking regulatory approach. Represented by Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Maida said the telecom sector has undergone remarkable transformation over the past 24 years since liberalisation.
“We are at a turning point where the nature of innovation demands a regulatory paradigm that is not only responsive but enabling,” he said.
As of May 2025, Nigeria’s telecom sector boasts 79.65% tele-density and 48.81% broadband penetration, underscoring the need for a flexible licensing model that encourages new entrants and disruptive services.
The draft GAF introduces three key instruments:
- Proof-of-Concept (PoC): Allows innovators to test new technologies in real-world environments
- Regulatory Sandbox: Permits trial of emerging services under controlled regulatory conditions
- Interim Service Authorisation (ISA): Enables temporary approval for services not yet covered by existing licenses
The Commission said these tools will serve as enablers for startups and innovators, bridging regulatory gaps while maintaining consumer protection and market stability.
Stakeholders at the forum praised the NCC’s proactive stance and pledged support for refining and implementing the framework in line with global best practices.
