Telcos raise concerns over regulatory overlap in digital economy bill
Nigerian telecommunications operators have raised objections to the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2025, citing concerns about overlapping authority between the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency. Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria Chairman Gbenga Adebayo addressed lawmakers during a public hearing in Abuja, recommending that NITDA handle digital policy and standards while NCC maintains control over network infrastructure and telecommunications services. The association also urged the removal of compliance requirements for trust service providers that duplicate existing telecom regulations.
Communications Minister Bosun Tijani disclosed that the information technology sector now accounts for 19 percent of gross domestic product, up from previous levels between 16 and 18 percent, with government targets set at 21 percent by the end of President Tinubu’s administration. Senate Committee Chairman Shuaib Afolabi Salisu described the legislation as the first of its kind across Africa for electronic governance frameworks. Multiple government agencies, including NCC, NICOMSAT, and NIPOST, expressed support for the proposed law during the joint Senate and House committee session.
