Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has affirmed the Commission’s support for law-abiding investors like Meta (formerly Facebook).
The commitment to regulatory backing is contingent on the investor’s adherence to rules and regulations that govern the Nigerian telecommunications sector. This assurance was given during a visit by Meta’s delegation, led by Kojo Boakye, the Vice President for Africa, the Middle-East, and Turkey, to the NCC’s headquarters in Abuja.
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Emphasis on Compliance and Level-Playing Field
Dr. Maida emphasized the NCC’s commitment to ensuring a level-playing field for all industry players through strict adherence to industry laws, regulations, and guidelines. The Commission aims to foster healthy competition and sustainable growth in the Nigerian telecoms sector by prioritizing compliance from all licensees and stakeholders. The regulatory support extends to investors who contribute positively to Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.
2Africa Cable Project and Digital Connectivity Goals
Kojo Boakye, leading the Meta delegation, conveyed Meta’s ongoing efforts to land the 2Africa Cable in Nigeria. This submarine cable, spanning 45,000 kilometers, is among the world’s largest subsea cable projects. Boakye outlined the cable’s significance, stating that it will interconnect Europe, Asia, and Africa, enhancing internet capacity and reliability.
The 2Africa Cable is expected to deliver up to 180 terabytes per second (Tbps) and play a crucial role in supporting 4G, 5G, and fixed broadband access, particularly in Nigeria.
Boakye sought the NCC’s support in navigating legal and regulatory processes for the seamless landing of the 2Africa Cable in Nigeria. The delegation highlighted the cable’s potential to complement existing backbone infrastructure in the country. Meta’s consortium plans to simultaneously land the cable in Lagos and Akwa-Ibom States, aiming to connect those not yet connected and provide enhanced and affordable access to those already connected.
Collaboration for Digital Inclusion and Connectivity
The visit by Meta’s delegation signifies a collaborative effort between Meta and the NCC to advance digital inclusion and connectivity goals in Nigeria. The regulatory support extended by the NCC underscores the importance of partnerships with global tech giants to achieve the country’s digital economy aspirations. The 2Africa Cable project aligns with Nigeria’s vision for robust digital infrastructure and expanded internet access for its citizens.