Aminu Maida (Dr.), the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasized the non-negotiable nature of quality of service in the telecommunications sector during an interactive session with industry CEOs in Lagos last week. He called for collaboration within the industry to ensure the delivery of high-quality services and expressed a commitment to transparency in the telecom ecosystem.
Speaking in Lagos as his confirmation as the substantive CEO of the Commission took place at the Senate Chambers, Maida underscored the crucial role of telecom CEOs in building on the sector’s achievements, which plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Addressing the high expectations of telecom consumers, Maida noted, “People actually expect telecom services to work. I don’t think they really appreciate what it takes to deliver these services. So, it has come to a stage they just see telecom service as utility like water and electricity. Like a social service, it needs to work. We need to really come together in the industry and deliver value to the customer.”
Maida also highlighted the importance of compliance with industry regulations and standards, stating that compliance would be a key focus area. He emphasized the need for the telecom sector to set the benchmark for excellence, urging industry players to aim for the highest standards.
On the broadband front, Maida acknowledged the progress made with Infrastructure Company (InfraCo) licensing but stressed the need to reassess and reimagine approaches. He emphasized the urgency to increase investment in broadband infrastructure, recognizing the critical role it plays in national development.
Considering operating entities as a crucial segment of national telecom development, Maida expressed his desire to hear directly from industry CEOs about the issues, challenges, and opportunities they face. He emphasized that the conversation was not just about representing shareholders but also about advancing Nigeria and delivering services to Nigerians.
Industry CEOs welcomed Maida’s consultative approach, with Tony Emoekpere, the President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), expressing encouragement and appreciation for the interactive session. Gbenga Adebayo, the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), commended the new boss of the NCC for providing a platform to discuss industry issues, noting the promising approach taken by Maida.
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