- NCC eliminates unregistered SIMs, boosting national security
- NGF backs lower Right of Way fees to expand broadband
- Airtel supports youth empowerment through GenU 9ja initiative
- NCC to launch public service quality evaluation map
NCC Eliminates Unregistered SIMs in Major National Security Boost, Warns Against Fake Registrations
The recent announcement by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) marks a significant achievement in enhancing the security of Nigeria’s telecommunications network. By eliminating all unregistered subscriber identity modules (SIMs), the NCC has taken a critical step in boosting both national and cyber security.
However, the challenge of subscribers using pseudonyms or false names during registration remains. As stated by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Aminu Maida, while the network is free from unregistered SIMs, the authenticity of names remains beyond their control. This situation can potentially allow users to obfuscate their identities, which is a concern for security.
The NCC’s efforts to address these issues, coupled with the warning about the illegality of using false identities, highlight the complexity of maintaining a secure telecommunications environment. For subscribers, it’s crucial to be aware that using fake names is not only an offence but also undermines the integrity of the telecommunications system. While challenges persist in ensuring the authenticity of registered names, the NCC’s move to eliminate unregistered SIMs is undeniably a major stride towards a more secure communication network in Nigeria.
NGF Backs NCC’s Initiative to Cut Costs, Accelerate Broadband Access by Addressing High Right of Way Fees
In a strategic effort to address Nigeria’s digital divide, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has announced its support for the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) initiative to lower costs and enhance broadband accessibility nationwide. This commitment came during a meeting at the NGF Secretariat in Abuja, where Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, emphasised the need to tackle key policy obstacles hindering broadband expansion. Central to the discussion was the high Right of Way (RoW) fees imposed by state governments, which have been a significant barrier to telecom operators.
At the meeting, Dr. Maida identified the existing N145 per linear meter levy as a substantial financial strain on the telecommunications industry. He argued that reducing or eliminating these fees would facilitate more rapid deployment of fibre optic infrastructure, thereby broadening access to high-speed internet across the country. “The Right of Way is a critical element in opening up the digital economy,” Dr. Maida stated, highlighting the crucial role of state governments in streamlining these processes. The reduction of RoW fees is seen not just as a relief for operators but as a catalyst for the country’s digital economy growth.
The NGF’s welcoming stance towards collaboration was praised by Dr. Maida, who described the potential alignment of national and subnational policies as a “game changer” for Nigeria’s digital landscape. The move signifies a promising collaboration between federal and state governments, aimed at creating a more conducive environment for digital investments and technological advancement.
As Nigeria strives to improve its digital infrastructure, the cooperative efforts of the NCC and NGF are poised to drive significant improvements in broadband penetration, ultimately fostering economic growth and inclusivity in the digital age.
Airtel Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Empowerment at GenU 9ja Board Launch
Airtel Nigeria reinforced its dedication to empowering young Nigerians by participating in the launch of the GenU 9ja Board at Abuja’s State House. This significant event, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, brought together UNICEF, national leaders, and private sector allies. Initiated in 2021 by UNICEF, GenU 9ja is a collaborative platform designed to assist 20 million youths by 2030 in their transition from education to employment, offering vital opportunities in connectivity, digital learning, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
As an active member of the GenU 9ja board, Airtel Nigeria is steadfast in promoting digital inclusion among young people. The company’s collaboration with UNICEF under the Reimagine Education programme has successfully provided over 1,200 schools and 800,000 students with access to free digital learning resources. This initiative is part of Airtel’s broader commitment to bridging educational gaps through technology, with plans to connect an additional 300 schools in the coming year.
Airtel Nigeria’s involvement in GenU 9ja highlights its pivotal role in creating pathways for youth empowerment in Nigeria. By fostering connectivity and access to digital resources, Airtel aims to equip young Nigerians with the tools necessary for thriving in today’s digital economy, aligning with the platform’s overarching goal of enhancing employability and entrepreneurial capabilities among the youth.
NCC to Launch Public Evaluation Map for Improved Telecom Service Quality Nationwide
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled plans to introduce a public evaluation map to assist network subscribers in assessing the quality of services offered by telecom operators. At a media interactive session held in Abuja on Tuesday, the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, highlighted the initiative’s importance as part of ongoing efforts to enhance digital services across Nigeria. This move aligns with the presidential directive that designates telecommunications infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII).
Dr. Aminu Maida explained that the public evaluation map is designed to promote better service delivery and ensure compliance among telecom operators. The map will provide subscribers with accessible information on service standards, fostering greater accountability and encouraging operators to improve their service offerings. This initiative is seen as a crucial step in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the telecommunications sector, which is pivotal to the country’s digital progress.
With over 171 million mobile subscribers and a teledensity of 79.22% as of June 2025, the need for continuous improvement in service quality is evident. The NCC’s proactive approach aims to not only meet existing demand but also anticipate future challenges in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. By empowering consumers with information and holding telecom operators to higher standards, the NCC seeks to fortify Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, ultimately benefiting the nation’s growing community of tech-savvy users.
