The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Aminu Maida has presented a new strategic direction for the organization at a recent meeting with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Maida emphasized the significance of broadband penetration, SIM Card/NIN linkage, and a focused emphasis on quality of service.
Recognizing the efforts made by prior administrations and industry participants in the telecommunications sector, Mr. Maida affirmed his resolve to expand on prior accomplishments.
Mr. Maida also addressed the complexity of the technology industry, highlighting the need for specialized knowledge and training to tell the story of the NCC’s work effectively. He assured those present that the organization would review their demands for training.
In terms of policy direction, the EVC thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani for considering him fit for his role. He also expressed his gratitude for the clear strategy laid down by the Minister, which he promised to work hard to implement. The Renewed Hope Agenda and the Strategic Roadmap set out by the Minister will be the guiding principles for the NCC, with some specific aspects added by the EVC and his team.
Aminu Maida also announced that the NCC would release its strategic plan by the end of January, aligning it with the Renewed Hope Agenda. He called for support to enlighten people about the NCC’s work, emphasizing the complexity of broadband penetration and the need for patience and trust.
Addressing the issue of Right of Way (RoW), Maida called for a change in narrative, moving away from focusing on charges to opening up and allowing infrastructure to be there. He also voiced concern over issues of vandalism and disruptions, urging the Nigerian Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) to bring these stories to light.
On the topic of SIM Card/NIN linkage, which was initiated by his predecessors, the EVC stressed the importance of completing this task. “We are doing it so that the economy can grow, there are so much in our plan,” he stated.
Furthermore, Mr. Maida expressed his determination to improve the quality of service in the telecom industry. He mentioned his recent engagement with the CEOs of telcos, where he emphasized the need to ensure value for money.
Dr. Reuben Muoka, the DPA, Adeleke Adewolu, the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Engagement, Ubale Maska, the Commissioner, Consumer Affairs, and the NITRA President, Blessing Olaifa, also gave their remarks during the meeting, expressing their commitment to work with the EVC and the press for the betterment of the NCC and the industry as a whole.
In response to NITRA’s request for more frequent meetings, the NCC boss committed to holding at least two meetings a year.
