This took place in Abuja during a  workshop which led to the establishes of a joint strategy to power critical telecom infrastructure using off-grid energy solutions.

According to both agencies the collaboration will  addresses a primary obstacle to national connectivity: unreliable power supply.

The initiative leverages renewable energy to maintain seamless network operation, expanding digital access and economic inclusion across remote regions to drive Nigeria’s digital economy.

Highlighting the interdependence of power and connectivity, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida noted that electricity and digital networks share complementary goals. A community lacking stable power struggles to sustain network infrastructure, while one without connectivity cannot fully utilize available power. The new framework directly solves this by aligning energy generation directly with telecom deployment.

Under the agreement, both agencies will merge their geospatial data into a unified digital map to streamline growth. The REA will supply data on operational and planned renewable energy projects—such as solar mini-grids and home system clusters—while the NCC will map existing and upcoming telecom deployments to pinpoint priority development zones.

Engineer Abraham Oshadami, NCC’s Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, explained that rural base stations will now draw power directly from nearby solar mini-grids. This setup keeps telecom towers online without relying on the national grid, dramatically reducing operational downtime and lowering network operators’ heavy dependence on costly diesel generators.

Engr. Umar Umar, REA’s Executive Director of Technical Services, emphasized that the MoU ends years of the two agencies operating in isolation despite aligned goals. By comparing overlapping coverage maps, both organizations can now make data-driven decisions to quickly identify high-priority, viable sites where mini-grids and telecom towers can be co-located.

To ensure long-term execution, a dedicated NCC-REA Collaboration Committee has been created to oversee pilot projects and refine operational strategies. With ongoing input from industry stakeholders, the committee will establish a scalable blueprint to ensure renewable energy consistently powers Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

The post NCC, REA Collaborates to Power Telecom Infrastructure with Renewable Energy appeared first on Business Today NG.

Speaking on the topic, Publishing in an Era of Artificial Intelligence, Ashibogwu charged journalists to protect their credibility in the age of synthetic media, and strive to identify opportunities and threats Al presents and explore all with wisdom.

He spoke at a media training put together by Leadway Assurance in Lagos for Members of Nigerian Association of Insurance & Pension Editors (NAIPE).

“While integrating Al into newsroom operations, we must use Al responsibly in content creation and develop an Al strategy for sustainable publishing”

He noted that, Artificial Intelligence will not replace journalists, but Journalists who use Artificial Intelligence will replace those who don’t. “AI can aid in investigations and boost productivity however journalists must be circumspect”

He urged journalists to watch against hallucinations, fabricated quotations, deep fakes, plagiarism, copyright violations, privacy breaches, manipulation, misinformation, and the worst of it, loss of public trust.

The expert outlined action plan for publishers and content creators viz: “Develop an Al policy, train newsroom staff on Al use, adopt Al responsibly across teams, create verification procedures, review copyright compliance, and experiment with Al tools. Because the future belongs neither to traditional journalism nor to artificial intelligence alone. It belongs to journalists who combine human wisdom with machine intelligence” he added.

The post Journalists Urge to Adopt AI Strategies for Boosted Productivity appeared first on Business Today NG.

Introduced during a recent assembly in Abuja centered on evaluating financial models for cooperative utility channels, this strategy aims to curb the expenses associated with high-speed internet deployment, foster joint resource usage, and speed up network expansion across the country.

The core objective of this centralized blueprint is to guarantee that protective network channels are embedded during the construction or renovation of transport links, allowing competing service providers to channel their data lines through pre-existing subterranean networks.

By utilizing this pre-installed underground infrastructure, telecommunications companies can efficiently expand their services while completely eliminating the need to repeatedly tear up public thoroughfares.

During the assembly, the Permanent Secretary for the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nadungu Gagare, emphasized that this collective approach represents a vital intervention by the state to fortify digital foundations and upgrade web accessibility.

He remarked that this unified trenching strategy stands as a pivotal state measure designed to accelerate data network evolution, trim the financial burden of web amplification, prevent redundant street damage, and optimize national assets.

He further noted that the true value of the directive hinges on a tariff system that is transparent, commercially viable, impartial, and supportive of collective asset utilization, which will heighten financier trust while protecting public resources.

Providing historical context, Ayuba Shuaibu, the Director of Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis at the regulatory body, mentioned that external specialists were brought on board in 2023 to rectify the lack of a standardized fee structure for cooperative conduits, an omission that previously hindered the strategy’s progress.

Concluding the presentations, Akpevwe Egbelughe, representing Dimension Data Nigeria, highlighted that recurrent earthworks stand as a premier barrier to widespread high-speed internet availability, explaining that integrating protective channels directly into transport engineering projects allows service providers to effortlessly slide their data cables through existing networks without disrupting public pathways.

The post NCC Targets Coordinated Fibre Rollout Under Federal ‘Dig Once’ Policy appeared first on Business Today NG.

During an official reception for the executive leadership of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations at the agency’s administrative headquarters, the communications regulator emphasized that working alongside certified communication specialists is essential for demystifying complex industrial policies and reinforcing operational transparency.

The commission’s chief executive, Dr. Aminu Maida, extended accolades to the visiting delegation for clinching the organizational rights for the upcoming 2026 World Public Relations Forum. He remarked that this milestone underscores the nation’s capacity to direct international perceptions favorably, while urging the practitioners to utilize an approaching continental telecommunications assembly to further project the country’s commercial strengths.

The oversight body highlighted several current campaigns requiring strategic media deployment, particularly the safeguarding of essential digital facilities, civic enlightenment regarding internet resource consumption, clear pricing structures, and competitive market safeguards.

According to administration updates, recent structural adjustments within the communication sector have successfully revived external stakeholder morale, unlocking substantial capital inflows meant for network amplification rather than mere operational maintenance.

In response, the head of the public relations body, Dr. Ike Neliaku, pledged the association’s specialized expertise to drive the agency’s information dissemination goals, affirming that corporate reputation management and state development are deeply intertwined.

The post NCC Partners NIPR to Boost Telecom Reforms and Public Awareness appeared first on Business Today NG.

During a consultative session with the freshly selected executive board of the National Association of Nigerian Students at its administrative headquarters, the regulatory agency emphasized that the preservation of these technical assets is vital for sustained digital connectivity.

The commission’s chief executive, Dr. Aminu Maida, represented by spokesperson Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, pointed out that systemic issues like the severing of fiber optic lines, hardware destruction, and localized access disputes severely undermine network reliability. He noted that scholars are uniquely positioned to serve as community whistleblowers and advocates rather than passive consumers of these services.

The authority used the assembly to highlight several ongoing campus developments, including the setup of specialized technological hubs within universities and ongoing deliberations regarding a policy to permit undergraduates to utilize verified learning portals without incurring internet billing fees.

Responding to the briefing, the student association’s president, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, praised the communication body’s transparent management strategy, affirming that structured cooperation remains far more effective than punitive enforcement alone.

Industry analysts observe that hardware disruption directly hinders the academic environment by interrupting remote instruction, halting research efforts, and interfering with digital examination portals, while simultaneously draining capital resources required for nationwide network expansion.

The post NCC Urges Nigerian Students to Protect Telecom Infrastructure Against Vandalism appeared first on Business Today NG.

The assessment evaluated Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on key indicators, including FOI compliance, fiscal transparency, institutional reforms and website performance.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, described the recognition as a validation of the Commission’s commitment to institutional reforms and improved public service delivery.

Oshadami said the recognition would encourage the Commission to sustain initiatives that promote transparency, accountability and operational efficiency while strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

He added that the award also reflects the NCC’s commitment to delivering better services to telecom consumers through improved service quality, responsiveness and stronger consumer protection measures across the industry.

Over the past two years, the Commission has implemented several reforms, including the launch of the National Coverage Map, publication of Quarterly Network Performance Reports, simplified tariff communication for subscribers, strengthened corporate governance compliance and expanded access to industry data.

Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Mr. Dasuki Arabi, commended the participating MDAs, particularly the top-performing agencies, for advancing transparency, accountability and good governance through sustained reform efforts.
Arabi noted that the annual assessment, held as part of activities marking the United Nations Public Service Day, recognises institutions that have demonstrated excellence in implementing reforms and delivering quality public services.

In addition to the institutional awards, the Bureau honoured 20 outstanding public servants across the federal, state and local government levels for exemplary leadership, including the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs. Adejoke Adefulire.

The post NCC Clinches Third Place in Federal Public Service Reforms Assessment appeared first on Business Today NG.

Speaking after the Digital Africa Summit Roundtable in Shanghai, China, Olorunnimbe said investors that begin factory construction before November would receive government backing, with the NCC helping to facilitate the necessary policy and regulatory support.

He said domestic smartphone production would reduce dependence on imported devices, create employment opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing sector while making smartphones more affordable.

According to him, producing devices locally would also reduce the impact of foreign exchange volatility on handset prices, improving access to smartphones for millions of Nigerians.

Olorunnimbe stressed that locally made phones must match international standards in quality and remain competitively priced to gain consumer confidence and compete with imported brands.

He added that stronger device regulation and expanded instalment payment options would protect consumers, improve smartphone ownership and support the country’s digital economy growth.

The post NCC Pushes for Presidential incentives to attract smartphone manufacturing to Nigeria appeared first on Business Today NG.

The initiative was unveiled in Abuja by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, who said it is designed to provide mentorship, professional development and networking opportunities for female professionals.

Makama explained that the programme will create a structured platform where experienced women leaders can guide younger professionals and help them develop the skills needed for greater responsibilities.

She noted that women currently make up about 70 per cent of the commission’s directors, describing the strong representation as an opportunity to nurture the next generation of female leaders.

According to her, the programme is intended to become a permanent feature of the NCC’s human capacity development efforts and will continue beyond the tenure of the current leadership.

Makama added that the commission hopes to strengthen female participation in leadership by building a lasting community that supports career growth across the regulatory environment.

Speaking at the launch, NCC Executive Vice-Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, said the initiative would inspire more women to pursue leadership roles and provide a platform for learning from accomplished professionals.

Maida expressed confidence in the potential of young women within the commission, saying the programme would help prepare them for senior leadership positions while contributing to the growth of the telecommunications sector.

The post NCC launches Women in Leadership Programme to boost female leadership in Nigeria’s tech sector appeared first on Business Today NG.

The new measure, which takes immediate effect, was announced in a joint statement signed by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, and the CAC’s Head of Public Affairs, Rasheed Mahe, on June 21, 2026.

Under the arrangement, licensed telecommunications companies intending to alter shareholding interests representing 10 per cent or more of their issued share capital must first obtain a Letter of No Objection from the NCC. The CAC will only process and register such transactions upon presentation of the commission’s approval.

According to the two agencies, the requirement is anchored on provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Competition Practices Regulations 2007, and the Licensing Regulations 2019, which empower the NCC to oversee transactions involving licensees and safeguard competition within the communications sector.

The regulators explained that the initiative is designed to strengthen monitoring of significant corporate restructuring activities and prevent actions that could undermine market competition.

The statement noted that the CAC would henceforth require documentary evidence of the NCC’s consent before effecting any qualifying alteration in the ownership composition of telecommunications firms.

The agencies further stated that the enhanced oversight mechanism is expected to improve transparency, deepen investor confidence, provide greater regulatory certainty, and support the long-term stability of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

They added that the collaboration between both institutions underscores their commitment to promoting sound corporate practices, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, and fostering a conducive environment for sustainable sector growth.

The NCC and CAC reaffirmed their resolve to continue working together to maintain a transparent, predictable, and investment-friendly business climate while supporting the orderly development of the country’s communications ecosystem.

The post NCC, CAC Roll Out New Rules for Telecom Equity Transactions appeared first on Business Today NG.

The exercise, being carried out by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in collaboration with advisory firm KPMG, was formally unveiled at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos.

The initiative is expected to influence competition, network expansion, and the overall economics of the country’s communications sector.

Central to the exercise is the examination of Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs), the fees operators pay each other for completing calls between different networks.

These charges play a significant role in shaping business operations and consumer costs across the industry.

According to the commission, the existing structure, introduced in 2018 and slightly adjusted in 2022, no longer reflects the realities of a rapidly evolving market.

The sector has undergone significant transformation, driven by the rollout of fifth-generation (5G) technology, growing demand for data services, and the emergence of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), whose business models differ from those of traditional network providers.

The regulator also pointed to mounting economic pressures affecting telecommunications companies. Rising inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and escalating operating expenses have significantly increased the cost of maintaining network infrastructure, much of which depends on imported equipment and services.

To address these developments, KPMG will undertake an extensive assessment involving industry consultations, financial analysis, and comparisons with international markets.

The objective is to determine whether the current framework remains fit for purpose and to identify areas requiring policy adjustments.

As part of the process, operators have been directed to provide detailed information covering revenue performance, operational expenditure, profitability, market positioning, capital spending, and customer usage patterns.

The data will help establish a clearer picture of industry trends and the impact of existing regulations on various market participants.

The engagement will involve discussions with a broad range of stakeholders, including mobile network operators, virtual service providers, international carriers, interconnect exchanges, and clearing houses. Their commercial, technical, and financial perspectives are expected to contribute to the development of a more balanced regulatory structure.

In addition, Nigeria’s telecommunications environment will be measured against comparable markets in Africa and Asia, including South Africa, Kenya, Indonesia, and Malaysia, to ensure alignment with global best practices.

The commission said the ultimate objective is to create a transparent and sustainable framework that supports continued investment in digital infrastructure while safeguarding consumer interests. Through extensive industry participation, regulators hope to establish a system that promotes innovation, strengthens competition, and ensures long-term sector growth.

Officials have urged all stakeholders to comply with submission deadlines, stressing that timely and accurate information will be critical to shaping the future regulatory landscape.

The post NCC Launches First Major Telecom Pricing Review in Nearly a Decade appeared first on Business Today NG.