LAGOS – The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has lauded the resilience of the telecom sector in its 14% contributions to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product, noting that the industry has done well for the country.
Dr. Maida made the remark recently in Lagos during a reception held in his honour by the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON).
While recognising the challenges faced in the industry, the EVC said although Nigeria has close to 200 million connected lines, more than half are on 2G.
“So, there is a lot of work to be done, especially in addressing challenges faced by MNOs (Mobile Network Operators) and OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) for long-term sustainability”.
Thanking ATCON for the reception in his honour, the EVC said: “For me, it feels as though I have known you people for ages. I want to say a big thank you. I know the challenges are acute, but we are looking at them working with the Minister. The industry has done well for the country, contributing about 14% to the GDP.
“You have my assurances that as the regulator the NCC would always listen and do the right things. Please, continue in the spirit of conversation. Let’s see this as a partnership towards a better industry”, he added.
Earlier, ATCON members took their turns to shower encomiums on the EVC.
Leading the procession, Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere, president of ATCON thanked the EVC for demonstrating an open-door leadership policy that has enabled the players to get closer to the Commissioner.
He expressed confidence in the EVC’s leadership style to tackle multifaceted challenges plaguing the industry.
Also speaking, Dr. Ayotunde Coker, CEO of Open Access Data Centres (OADC), said: “The changes being made in this sector are instrumental for fundamental changes in the country. We have a lot of challenges, however, the new highway is digital. We need a collective approach to tackle our challenges and we trust in your regulatory competencies (as being celebrated across Africa and beyond) to face these challenges for the betterment of our economy.
On his part, Biodun Omoniyi, MD/CEO, VDT Communications, noted: “We are happy to have the EVC in our midst. Truly, there are challenges across the country, but ours is peculiar. However, with the EVC at the helm of affairs, we are ready to work with you to achieve your visions for this sector. Collaboration is key.”
Commenting, Mr. Chidi Okonkwo, MD, TECNO Mobile, said: “TECNO is happy to be in this country to impact the lives of Nigerians. We will continue to provide affordable devices and in the quality that is required of us. TECNO has been recognised by the NCC as one of the most compliant OEMs in the country. We couldn’t have attained that if not for the support from the NCC and the industry advocacy group – ATCON.
Ike Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty [Nigeria], also commented thus: “The EVC’s engagements with the telecoms sector have been fruitful. So, it is not out of place to formally welcome the EVC to the industry. We look forward to more engagements for fruitful results in the industry.