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NCC introduces platform for consumers to access essential, reliable updates/services

Katsina City News
21 Dec, 2024
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By Danjuma Katsina

@ Katsina Times

The Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), has introduced a platform called Application-to-Person, (A2P) messaging licencing framework, aimed to guarantee telecom consumers a timely, secure, and reliable access to essential updates and services.

The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC)/CEO, of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida disclosed this during a Virtual Stakeholders’ Forum on the draft A2P Licensing Framework held on Dec. 20, 2024.

In his speech delivered by the Ag. Head, Legal and Regulatory Services of NCC, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Maida said that the A2P messaging plays a vital role in today’s digital world.

“It has become the go-to platform for businesses to send notifications, whether transactional, promotional, or service-related, directly to consumers.

“From bank alerts and healthcare reminders to promotional campaigns and government updates, A2P messaging drives efficiency, enhances communication, and supports our socio-economic development.

“At the Nigerian Communications Commission, our strategic focus is centred on three key stakeholders: the government, consumers, and the industry-our licensees.

“Each of these stakeholders plays a vital role in the success of the A2P messaging platform,” the NCC EVC/CEO testified.

According to him, for the government, A2P messaging is a powerful tool for communication with citizens, enabling the efficient delivery of public services and information.

He added that for the industry, it creates opportunities for businesses and service providers to innovate, drive competition, and achieve sustainable growth.

Maida pointed out that, “Despite its undeniable value, the international A2P messaging space in Nigeria faces significant challenges, including consumer protection, fraud prevention, and ensuring industry fairness.

“These gaps have led to issues such as fraud, spam, data privacy concerns, and an unequal distribution of value across the ecosystem.

“Such challenges not only affect businesses and consumers, but also pose a threat to the sustainable growth and potential of this crucial communication tool. “This forum marks a pivotal step toward addressing these challenges.

“Today we will be presenting the proposed regulatory framework for A2P messaging to you, our valued stakeholders, for deliberation.

“This framework represents our commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring that all players in the value chain operate in a fair, transparent, and secure environment.”

According to him, NCC firmly believe that effective regulation stems from inclusivity and collaboration, as the forum is an opportunity for operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers to engage in meaningful discussions.

The NCC boss further noted that, “We want to hear from you, your perspectives, experiences, and recommendations so that together we can refine this framework to ensure it meets the needs of all of us.

“Our goal is to create a sustainable and thriving A2P messaging ecosystem that protects consumers, promotes fair competition, and unlocks new opportunities for growth.

“To achieve this, your active participation today is essential. I urge you to engage constructively, provide feedback, and contribute ideas that will help shape the future of A2P messaging in Nigeria.”

Maida also assured the stakeholders that NCC remains committed to providing a regulatory environment that supports innovation, protects stakeholders, and ensures that telecommunications sector continues to thrive.