The Nigerian Communications Commission has called for deeper collaboration among African countries to strengthen the continent’s influence in global telecommunications and digital economy governance.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union Conference Preparatory Committee.
According to a statement signed by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the meeting is part of efforts to develop Africa’s common position ahead of the International Telecommunication Union Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) scheduled for Doha, Qatar.
Mr Maida said the preparatory meeting provides a strategic platform for African countries to build consensus on critical issues shaping the future of telecommunications and the digital economy.
He noted that Africa’s effectiveness in global policy engagement depends on the quality of its preparation, coherence of positions and consistency in advancing shared priorities.
“The Conference Preparatory Committee plays a critical role in strengthening Africa’s participation in global telecommunications policy discussions by enabling member states to harmonise perspectives and develop technically sound positions,” he said.
He added that participants at the session would review the activities of the ATU between 2023 and 2026, and prepare recommendations and resolutions for consideration at the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries.
Mr Maida emphasised the need for sustained and institutionalised regulatory cooperation across the continent, particularly in addressing emerging issues such as spectrum harmonisation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital trust, data protection and universal access.
He also highlighted the importance of improving Africa’s technical participation in international telecommunications processes, including study groups and technical committees where global standards are developed.
According to him, a stronger African voice in global decision-making must be backed by technical expertise, credible data and consistent engagement.
Mr Maida further stressed the need to ensure that African perspectives are reflected in global digital transformation discussions, citing the continent’s growing digital economy and expanding connectivity.
He commended the ATU Secretariat, led by its Secretary-General, John Omo, for its efforts in promoting a coordinated African voice in international telecommunications fora.
The NCC boss reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the ATU through regulatory cooperation, peer learning and active participation in regional and global initiatives.
He expressed optimism that the meeting would enhance Africa’s alignment ahead of PP-26 and strengthen collaboration in global telecommunications policy processes.
