***NCC To Develop New License For Telecommunication
By Miriam Humbe
In a bid to strengthen communication gaps and prevent fraudulent activities through Messaging, the Nigerian Communication Commission, (NCC) is set to develop a new license for tele- communication sector aimed at checkmating cybercrime that affects businesses, consumers, and service providers.
Executive Vice Chairman Nigerian Communication Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, in a virtual stakeholders meeting explained in details, issues around Application- to- Person (A2P) Service and said when fully developed, will
play a vital role in today’s digital world.
He said: “The service will be a platform for businesses to send notifications, whether transactional, promotional, or service-related, directly to consumers.
“From bank alerts and healthcare reminders to promotional campaigns and government updates, A2P messaging drives efficiency, enhances communication, and supports our socio-economic development.
“Nigerian Communications Commission strategic focus is centred on three key stakeholders: the government, consumers, and the industry—our licensees.”
He said each stakeholders will play a vital role in the success of the A2P messaging platform.
Represented by the Head, Legal and Regulatory Services, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Dr. Aminu Maida said for “the government, A2P messaging is a powerful tool for communication with citizens, enabling the efficient delivery of public services and information.
“For consumers, it guarantees timely, secure, and reliable access to essential updates and services.
“For the industry, it creates opportunities for businesses and service providers to innovate, drive competition, and achieve sustainable growth.”
The NCC boss said that despite its undeniable value, the international A2P messaging space in Nigeria faces significant challenges, including consumer protection, fraud prevention, and ensuring industry fairness.
These gaps have led to issues such as fraud, spam, data privacy concerns, and an unequal distribution of value across the ecosystem.
Such challenges not only affect businesses and consumers but also pose a threat to the sustainable growth and potential of this crucial communication tool.
According to him: “This forum marks a pivotal step toward addressing these challenges.
“Today we will be presenting the proposed regulatory framework for A2P messaging to you, our valued stakeholders, for deliberation.
“This framework represents our commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring that all players in the value chain operate in a fair, transparent, and secure environment.
“At the NCC, we firmly believe that effective regulation stems from inclusivity and collaboration.
“This forum is an opportunity for all of us—operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers—to engage in meaningful discussions.
“We want to hear from you—your perspectives, experiences, and recommendations—so that together, we can refine this framework to ensure it meets the needs of all of us”.
