BY AMOS DUNIA, ABUJA – The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has announced that a new regulatory framework on cyber security is being introduced to compel telecom operators to meet baseline security requirements and adopt clear procedures for handling cyber incidences.
This was as the Commission assured of its determination to strengthen transparency, accountability, and ensured quality service delivery in the telecommunications sector of the nation.
Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, who stated these on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abuja at an interactive session with journalists, said that the NCC as an enabler is working assiduously to advance key reforms aimed at improving tariff regulation, reinforcing corporate governance standards, and updating the National Telecommunications Policy, with broader stakeholder consultations scheduled for June.
Maida also said that the commission is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to safeguard telecom infrastructure that are classified as critical national assets.
According to Maida; “The collaboration has assisted in drastically reducing cases of infrastructure damage, particularly during construction activities.
The NCC EVC noted that while the quality of service remains below expectations, he however said that there are ongoing gradual improvements, thus expressed optimism on gradual improvements.
In the words of Maida; “We are not yet at our desired level, but we are seeing encouraging signs”.
The NCC boss further said that pricing adjustments are subject to strict regulatory oversight designed to strike a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring the sustainability of operators facing inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and rising operational costs.
Commenting on data protection, the EVC of the NCC assured Nigerians of the commitment of the commission to safeguarding consumer information, and emphasised that telecom operators are bound by stringent data protection and cybersecurity regulations which are backed by continuous monitoring and enforcement.
While addressing concerns about minors’ exposure to harmful online contents, the NCC said that while social media platforms fall outside its direct regulatory control, it is however, collaborating with relevant stakeholders to promote digital literacy, parental safeguards, and responsible platform governance.
Maida also said that tracking criminal activities online involves multiple security agencies, with telecom operators providing support within the confines of the law, saying that surveillance and interception activities must adhere strictly to due legal processes.
In his remarks at the event, the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, applauded the media and journalists for their role in informing the public and driving meaningful conversations around digital connectivity.
Speaking in turn, the Head of the Public Affairs Department of the NCC, Mrs Nnenna Ukoha, said the media engagement was part of ongoing efforts to deepen stakeholder dialogue and strengthen industry resilience.
Ukoha assured of the commitment of the commission to maintaining open communication with stakeholders, saying that sustained collaboration with the media is essential to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.
