NCC Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Digital Integration Maida

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has restated its commitment to working closely with telecommunications regulators across West Africa to deepen regional digital integration.

This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, during a visit by a high-level delegation from the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja over the weekend.

Speaking through the Director of Corporate Planning, Strategy and Risk Management, Dr. Kelechi Nwankwo, Maida said collaboration with sister regulatory agencies in the sub-region remains central to the NCC’s mandate, especially in driving the digital economy and improving the lives of citizens.

He explained that through platforms such as the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), the NCC has consistently promoted regional cooperation, noting that the region stands to gain more when countries are better connected.

According to him, collaboration is a key priority for the NCC Board, as sustained engagement with regional partners helps protect consumers’ interests and supports the growth of the telecommunications sector.

Maida also recalled the Commission’s push for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to be recognised as critical national infrastructure within ECOWAS, adding that Nigeria has already taken that step to ensure long-term and sustainable sector development.

He assured the Liberian delegation of the NCC’s willingness to support shared regional initiatives and help turn discussions into practical outcomes.

In his response, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the LTA, Hon. Clarence Massaquoi, praised the NCC for its openness and leadership, describing the engagement as important for strengthening regulatory cooperation across West Africa.

Massaquoi noted that Nigeria, as the region’s largest economy, plays a central role in Africa’s communications and economic landscape, adding that progress made by Nigeria often has a positive impact on other countries in the sub-region.

He said that since assuming office, the LTA has focused on strengthening ties with regional institutions in support of ECOWAS’ integration agenda, stressing that affordable and reliable communication services are critical to achieving effective regional integration, especially in addressing cross-border roaming issues.

The LTA Chairman revealed that Liberia has already signed bilateral agreements with The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire, and is in advanced talks with Ghana and Guinea-Conakry. He also reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to active participation in WATRA.

Massaquoi further requested the NCC’s support in regulatory capacity building and the sharing of best practices, particularly as Liberia reviews its licensing framework to reflect emerging technologies and align with regional standards.

Both regulators reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration, identifying priority areas of engagement, and advancing initiatives that will promote seamless connectivity, regional integration, and socio-economic development across West Africa.

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