The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) hosted a virtual stakeholders’ forum on December 20, 2024, to deliberate on the Draft Application-to-Person (A2P) Licensing Framework.
The event highlighted the importance of A2P messaging in fostering efficient communication and economic growth while addressing regulatory challenges.
The welcome address, delivered on behalf of the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC)/CEO of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, by the Acting Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, underscored the commission’s commitment to inclusive and collaborative regulation.
In her speech, Mrs. Whyte emphasized the transformative role of A2P messaging in enabling businesses, governments, and service providers to connect efficiently with consumers. She noted that despite its benefits, the sector faces challenges such as fraud, spam, and an unequal distribution of value. These issues, she stated, necessitate the proposed licensing framework.
“A2P messaging is a vital tool for communication in today’s digital world. This forum provides an opportunity for stakeholders to share their perspectives and recommendations as we work to create a secure, fair, and thriving ecosystem,” she said.
The forum also featured a presentation by Mrs. Truddy Tony-Awusaku, Assistant Director of the Licensing and Authorization Department, which outlined the framework’s objectives, scope, and benefits. Key highlights included:
- Regulatory Justification: Ensuring fair competition, preventing fraud, and enhancing security.
- Licensing Features: A 5-year renewable license with a fee of ₦10 million, open market competition, and strict compliance requirements.
- Benefits: Improved data protection, enhanced user trust, increased local revenue, and market transparency.
Additionally, the NCC presented feedback received from stakeholders on the draft framework and detailed its responses to the observations and recommendations.
The commission reiterated its commitment to participatory rule-making and announced plans for further engagements with internal and external stakeholders before finalizing the framework.
This forum marks a significant step in NCC’s efforts to establish a regulated and sustainable A2P messaging ecosystem that supports innovation while protecting consumers and businesses alike.
