The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has raised concerns over gaps in artificial intelligence governance across Nigeria’s communications sector, warning that the rapid adoption of AI is outpacing the development of appropriate oversight mechanisms.
A survey presented at the commission’s Internet Governance Symposium in Lagos on October 15 found that 73 per cent of surveyed licensees were using or piloting artificial intelligence in live operations, while 27 per cent had no governance arrangements for their AI systems.
The findings highlight the growing importance of accountability, transparency and consumer protection as telecommunications operators and other digital service providers integrate AI into their operations.
The survey covered 47 organisations drawn from industry, academia, research institutions and civil society. Participants included mobile network operators, internet service providers and members of the technical community.
According to the NCC, 94 per cent of respondents supported informing consumers when they were interacting with artificial intelligence, reflecting strong interest in greater transparency around the use of automated systems.
The findings come as AI tools increasingly influence customer service, information processing and other digital operations. Without appropriate oversight, organisations may struggle to identify errors, assign responsibility for harmful outcomes or explain how automated decisions affect consumers.
The commission said the survey also revealed a need for clearer regulatory guidance, with licensees requesting practical implementation guidelines, compliance templates and step-by-step instructions on their obligations under the Internet Code of Practice 2026.
In response, the NCC plans to publish guidance materials, frequently asked questions and compliance templates, while organising workshops to help operators understand and implement the applicable requirements.
The commission has also launched an Internet Governance Working Group to provide a continuing platform for discussions on online safety, data protection, AI accountability and other emerging digital-policy issues.
Speaking at the symposium, NCC Executive Commissioner for Technical Services Abraham Oshadami, who represented Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida, said internet governance had implications for opportunity, trust, security and users’ rights.
The commission also highlighted its Cyber Resilience Framework for the Nigeria Communications Sector, which is intended to strengthen the security and resilience of infrastructure supporting digital services.
For telecom operators, the emerging regulatory environment means that AI adoption will increasingly require documented governance arrangements, clear responsibilities and effective risk-management procedures.
For consumers, greater transparency could make it easier to understand when AI is being used and how to seek assistance when automated services fail.
The NCC’s findings do not establish that all organisations in the wider telecommunications industry have the same governance gaps. However, they identify a significant challenge for a sector adopting AI at a rapid pace.
The effectiveness of the planned measures will depend on the clarity of the requirements, the level of industry compliance and the commission’s ability to balance technological innovation with consumer protection.
