On Thursday, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), welcomed the new licensing framework announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), describing it as a bold step towards expanding digital access across the country.
However, the organization is calling for clearer provisions to ensure that community networks, especially those driven by non-profits, are fully recognized within the framework.
Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Forum on the Draft General Authorization Framework held in Abuja, CITAD Executive Director, Y. Z. Ya’u, said the NCC’s introduction of the Proof of Concept Pilots, Regulatory Sandbox, and Interim Service Authorization marks a strategic shift in Nigeria’s regulatory regime.
The new framework aims to foster innovation, support technology startups, and extend connectivity to unserved and underserved communities.
“For over five years, CITAD has led the advocacy for a licensing class that recognizes community networks as vital tools for addressing the digital exclusion faced by over 27 million Nigerians living in isolated and economically marginalized communities,” Ya’u stated.
He noted that while commercial operators are unlikely to serve such areas due to profitability concerns, community-led initiatives offer a sustainable solution to bridging Nigeria’s digital divide.
The group highlighted its collaboration with key stakeholders, including the NCC, Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), Association for Progressive Communication (APC), and the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), in advancing the National Strategy for Community Networks and pushing for regulatory reforms.
“Today’s announcement signals progress, but we are concerned that the framework, as it stands, appears to exclude non-profits, which are the primary drivers of community networks both in Nigeria and globally,” CITAD Boss warned.
The organization urged the NCC to provide clarity on how community networks will be accommodated within the Interim Service Authorization, stressing the need to explicitly recognize their unique role in providing connectivity to disadvantaged populations.
“Access to digital connectivity is not a luxury; it is a right that empowers communities and drives national development.
“We commend the NCC for this forward-looking move but urge that regulatory inclusivity be prioritized to ensure no community is left behind,” Ya’u emphasized.
He concluded by calling on the NCC to ensure the new framework does not inadvertently shut out the very organizations working to connect Nigeria’s most isolated citizens.
