The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged Nigerians, especially students to take an active role in protecting telecommunications infrastructure across the country, describing such facilities as critical national assets that support education, innovation, economic growth and digital connectivity.
The Commission made the call during a courtesy and familiarisation visit by the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to its headquarters in Abuja.
The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who was represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, congratulated the newly elected NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, and members of the association’s executive council on their election, while commending the smooth transition in the leadership of the student body.
According to a press statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Dr. Maida said the longstanding relationship between NCC and NANS has continued to thrive through mutual respect, dialogue and constructive engagement. He expressed confidence that the new leadership would consolidate on the achievements of its predecessors.
He further stated that students should remain actively involved in the Commission’s stakeholder engagement processes, particularly public consultations on regulatory and consumer-related initiatives, to ensure that the interests and perspectives of Nigerian students are reflected in policy formulation.
The NCC boss identified vandalism of telecommunications facilities, theft of fibre optic cables and network equipment, destruction of infrastructure and right-of-way challenges as major factors affecting quality service delivery across the country.
He stressed the need for NANS to support the Commission’s awareness campaigns by sensitising students on the importance of safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure within and outside educational institutions.
“Telecommunications infrastructure remains the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy and plays a crucial role in learning, research, innovation and communication. Students can support national efforts aimed at protecting telecommunications infrastructure through awareness and responsible civic engagement,” he said.
Dr. Maida also highlighted several initiatives being implemented by the Commission to deepen digital inclusion and create opportunities for young Nigerians. These include the deployment of digital infrastructure through the Universal Service Provision Fund, establishment of Digital Parks in tertiary institutions across the country, and ongoing efforts to promote digital learning and innovation.
He disclosed that the Commission is consulting stakeholders on a proposed framework that could enable access to certain approved educational platforms under specific conditions without data charges.
On consumer protection, the EVC reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting telecommunications consumers under its regulatory framework and encouraged students to take advantage of consumer education resources available through the Commission to better understand data management, consumer rights and complaint resolution mechanisms.
Earlier, NANS President, Comrade Babatunde, expressed appreciation to the Commission for sustaining a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the student body over the years.
He commended NCC for its openness to strengthening engagement with students through dialogue and mutual understanding, noting that the Commission’s approach has continued to encourage the association to pursue peaceful and responsible advocacy on national issues.
(Ripples)
