Licensed telecom operators in Nigeria have rejected vesting broad regulatory powers in the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), saying putting all regulatory powers on an agency will erode investors’ confidence.
The telcos, who made their position known during the public hearing on National Digital Economy and E-governance Bill 2025 hosted in Abuja by the Senate and House of Representatives Joint Committee on ICT in Abuja Monday, recommended a clear delineation between NITDA and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Adebayo said the operators’ position followed a thorough review of the Bill and focus on ensuring clarity, coherence, and regulatory harmony.
He said: “The Bill vests broad powers in the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) that intersect with the statutory mandate of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). To avoid duplication, we recommend a clear delineation—NITDA to lead on digital policy, e-governance, and standard setting; NCC to retain regulatory oversight on telecommunications networks, infrastructure, and digital services.”
On Artificial Intelligence Regulation, the telcos said the provisions on AI should reflect international best practice by distinguishing between policy guidance (to be led by NITDA) and technical regulation (to remain under NCC).
This dual structure—used in the UK, India, and the EU—ensures accountability while encouraging innovation, telcos said.
Adebayo said: “We fully support the objectives of the Bill and the vision for a robust digital economy.
“However, we respectfully submit that: The Bill should complement, not override, existing sectoral laws; The NCC should retain regulatory oversight of the telecommunications sector; The Bill should promote structured collaboration between NITDA, NCC, and FCCPC; and Institutional roles must be clearly defined to avoid jurisdictional overlaps.
“In conclusion, ALTON reiterates its full support for the digital transformation of Nigeria but calls for clear jurisdictional boundaries, institutional independence, and structured collaboration to ensure the Bill’s objectives are achieved efficiently and sustainably.”
Source: dailytrust
