NCC Introduces General Authorisation Framework to Boost Nigeria’s Telecom Innovation

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a Draft of a General Authorisation Framework (GAF) aimed at fostering innovation, accommodating emerging technologies, and ensuring regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. The commission shared this document with stakeholders during a recent engagement session attended by telecom executives, innovators, and industry leaders, marking a significant step toward a more inclusive and dynamic digital economy.

The GAF is designed to address the rapid evolution of global digital ecosystems, where new technologies and business models challenge traditional licensing structures. The Commission studied models like the UK’s Ofcom Sandbox and Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority testbeds to create a framework that promotes innovation while maintaining consumer protection and market integrity.

The framework introduces three core pathways to support innovation: Proof of Concept (PoC), which allows entities to demonstrate the viability of novel technologies or services; Regulatory Sandbox, enabling testing under NCC supervision in a controlled environment, such as Open RAN trials or dynamic spectrum sharing; and Interim Service Authorisation (ISA), providing temporary authorisation for services not yet covered by existing license categories. These mechanisms are time-bound and transparent, designed to collect data for future regulation without disrupting market structures.

The GAF aligns with national policies, including the Nigerian Data Protection Act 2023 and the National Broadband Plan, while incorporating protections like cybersecurity measures and consumer safeguards. Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the transformative growth of Nigeria’s telecom sector. He highlighted the sector’s achievements, including a teledensity of 79.65% and broadband penetration of 48.81% as of May 2025, driven by mobile technology adoption and surging data consumption, underscoring Nigeria’s evolving digital landscape.

The NCC’s Director of Licensing and Authorisation explained that the GAF was crafted through extensive research, cross-departmental collaboration, and global benchmarking. Stakeholders provided critical feedback to refine the NCC’s GAF. The Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) recommended distinguishing between basic communication platforms and services to better capture innovations. ICAF also called for a clearer technical scope and urged the commission to specify that type-approval for equipment during testing must come from the Commission or a designated body to avoid regulatory ambiguity. The NCC acknowledged these points, promising clarity in the final framework.

MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, a major telecom operator, also raised concerns about certain provisions. On reporting requirements, MTN suggested that holders of a General Authorisation should only submit a final report within 30 days of testing completion, arguing that revenue details may not always apply during trials. The NCC agreed to consider this recommendation. MTN also proposed subsidised fees for spectrum or numbering resources during short-term PoC or sandbox initiatives, suggesting payments only after successful trials and based on resources used. This, MTN argued, would encourage investment without financial burdens during testing phases.

Additionally, MTN found the requirement to submit particulars of agreements with other companies burdensome and recommended its removal or limitation to agreements already mandated by existing regulations. On commencement schedules, MTN advised allowing applicants to specify trial start dates to align with their plans. Finally, MTN sought clarification on checklist requirements for regulatory approvals, urging the NCC to define specific authorities and approval types to ensure standardisation.

The NCC emphasised that the GAF is a “living document” open to stakeholder input. “Your insights, ideas, and partnership are critical,” Maida told attendees, underscoring the collaborative approach needed to refine the framework. He highlighted the role of mobile network operators, service providers, startups, and academia in building a resilient and innovative ecosystem. The GAF strives to bridge the divide between regulation and innovation, thereby empowering both startups and established players. By providing pathways for experimentation, the NCC seeks to deepen Nigeria’s innovation value chain, nurture homegrown solutions, and boost investor confidence.

Maida stressed the importance of inclusivity, noting that the framework will help expand access, close connectivity gaps, and empower underserved communities. As Nigeria’s digital economy unfolds, the GAF positions the telecom sector as a cornerstone of economic advancement. The NCC’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness ensures that stakeholder feedback will shape the final framework, set to drive sustainable growth and innovation across the nation.