Key Points from ALTON’s Submission on Nigeria’s Digital Economy Bill
Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), presented the association’s position during a hearing of the Joint National Assembly Committee on the Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill. He commended legislators for their efforts to modernize Nigeria’s digital landscape and establish a legal framework for emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
As the representative of all licensed telecom network and infrastructure operators in Nigeria, ALTON acknowledged the transformative potential of the Bill but highlighted concerns about overlapping mandates, institutional independence, and the need for coordinated regulatory action.
“The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) should retain its statutory oversight of telecommunications networks and infrastructure, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) should lead on digital policy and e-governance,” Adebayo stated. He emphasized that ensuring these agencies operate within clearly defined roles will prevent duplication, enhance efficiency, and foster investor trust.
The association warned that regulatory ambiguity between NITDA and NCC could slow implementation, disrupt service delivery, and undermine confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Recommendations for Clear Regulatory Roles
ALTON recommended a deliberate separation of policy guidance and technical regulation, citing international best practices from the United Kingdom, India, and the European Union, where such structures have successfully balanced accountability with innovation.
The association also called for a review of Section 82 of the Bill, which grants ministerial directive powers. They argued that safeguarding regulatory independence is critical for maintaining investor confidence and ensuring transparent governance.
To further strengthen inter-agency collaboration, ALTON proposed the creation of a National Digital Cooperation and Interoperability Framework. This framework would formalize joint action among NITDA, NCC, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), providing a structured platform for coordination and policy alignment.
“Embedding structured collaboration within the Bill is essential to avoid policy fragmentation and improve coordination across government institutions,” Adebayo noted.
Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Transformation
ALTON reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation while emphasizing that the success of the Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill depends on establishing clear jurisdictional boundaries, ensuring institutional independence, and promoting effective regulatory cooperation.
“Our goal is a sustainable digital economy driven by innovation, accountability, and investor trust,” Adebayo added, stressing that clarity and collaboration are the pillars that will define Nigeria’s digital future.
Importance of Institutional Clarity
The association’s submission highlights the importance of institutional clarity in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. With the rapid evolution of technology, it is crucial that regulatory bodies operate independently yet collaboratively to support growth and innovation.
By defining clear roles for each agency, Nigeria can create a more predictable and attractive environment for investors and tech entrepreneurs. This will not only help in attracting foreign investment but also encourage local innovation and development.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, ALTON’s recommendations aim to ensure that Nigeria remains competitive in the global digital economy. The proposed framework for inter-agency cooperation is a step towards creating a cohesive and efficient regulatory environment.
As the Bill moves forward, the input from industry stakeholders like ALTON will play a vital role in shaping a robust and forward-looking digital policy for the country.