The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has emphasized the critical role Attorneys-General play in advancing digital inclusion across Nigeria.
Speaking at the 1st Annual Workshop for Attorneys-General on Emerging Issues in the Communications Sector, held at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Dr. Maida described the event as a significant milestone in fostering collaboration between the legal community and the nation’s communications regulatory ecosystem.
In his remarks, Dr. Maida thanked the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for his presence, noting that it sent a strong signal about the Federal Government’s commitment to institutional synergy and coherent policy development.
“We deeply appreciate your leadership and commitment,” the EVC stated.
“The theme of this workshop—‘Building and Driving Synergy in Regulating Communications for the Digital Transformation of Nigeria’—reflects our belief that collaboration is not optional, but essential.”
He stressed that no sector—particularly one as dynamic and impactful as communications—can be effectively regulated in isolation. According to Dr. Maida, the communications sector remains a vital enabler of innovation, commerce, governance, and social inclusion.
“To fully unlock its potential, we must confront a range of challenges—legal, regulatory, fiscal, and operational,” he said.
Dr. Maida highlighted the pivotal role of Attorneys-General, not only as Chief Law Officers of their respective states but also as policy influencers who shape the legal frameworks supporting national development.
“Your insights help ensure that innovation occurs within structures that promote fairness, accountability, and long-term stability,” he noted.
He traced the evolution of communications regulation in Nigeria, noting its progression from market liberalization in the early 2000s to the current focus on advanced issues such as artificial intelligence governance, digital resilience, and sustainable connectivity.
The workshop, according to the EVC, was designed to address several pressing issues in the sector today, including:
- Reviewing the Nigerian Communications Act (2003): Assessing its strengths, weaknesses, and the need for reform to ensure its relevance in the digital age.
- Streamlining taxation in the sector: Addressing the burden of multiple and inconsistent taxes that hinder investment and sectoral growth.
- Resolving regulatory overlaps: Enhancing coordination and eliminating inefficiencies caused by fragmented oversight.
Dr. Maida emphasized the importance of implementing the 2024 Executive Order by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which designates communications infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII). This new designation provides a framework for deeper collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and other key stakeholders.
“We must now operationalize this framework effectively,” he urged.
As Nigeria advances its digital transformation agenda, driven by technologies like AI, IoT, and high-speed broadband, Dr. Maida called for a Whole-of-Government approach that mobilizes the strengths of both federal and state institutions.
“At the NCC, we are committed to working with you to align regulatory actions with broader national goals,” he concluded.
“Attorneys-General have a strategic role—not just in interpreting the law, but in shaping an enabling environment where technology and governance work hand in hand.”
L - R: Mrs Chizua Whyte, Head Legal & Regulatory Services, Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC; Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms; Lawal Pedro,SAN; Hon Attorney General, Lagos State, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, Hon Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Dr Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NCC; and Barr. Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner Stakeholder Mgt, NCC, during the 1st Edition of Annual Workshop for Attorneys General on Emerging Issues in the Communications Sector, at Radisson Blu Lagos State on the 30th July 2025.
