By Hosea Parah, Abuja

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has pledged to make transparency the bedrock of his leadership as the country’s chief telecom regulator. This commitment aims to foster a resilient, accountable, and efficient institution. Dr. Maida made this announcement during a recent courtesy visit to the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, in Abuja.

During the visit, Dr. Maida briefed the minister on his activities, vision, and strategy since assuming office in October 2023. He emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, “Transparency is key. It is through transparency that we can self-regulate even as regulators. By doing so, we will hold ourselves accountable and drive the Commission forward to achieve our goals of operational excellence.”

Dr. Maida commended the minister for leading by example in demonstrating transparency in his leadership style. He expressed his belief that transparency has the potential to transform the industry, making it accountable to both the people and industry players.

The NCC boss extended his appreciation, through the Minister, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading this critical sector of the economy.

During the visit, Dr. Maida shared his vision and priorities for the Commission with the Minister. He highlighted that these priorities align with the 5-Pillars of the Strategic Plan unveiled by the Minister.

Quality of experience (QoE) and broadband connectivity were identified as priority areas by Dr. Maida. He stressed that QoE will be non-negotiable, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to compliance and setting a standard of what is considered acceptable. Additionally, he recognized the significance of broadband connectivity as a major enabler of the digital economy and financial inclusion.

Dr. Maida also emphasized the need to leverage the potential of innovations such as the 5G revolution to create more opportunities within the industry and enhance connectivity.

In terms of internal operations, the NCC CEO shared that the Commission is currently reviewing its processes to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. Digitization of operations is also being pursued to streamline operations.

Dr. Maida stated, “Under my leadership, the Commission will prioritize the improvement of our regulatory activities. This will attract more investors to the telecommunications industry in Nigeria, leading to the creation of vertical businesses, increased foreign direct investments, revenue generation, and employment.”

He also highlighted the importance of the Digital Bridge Institute in driving a knowledge-based economy. Dr. Maida expressed his intention to revamp and retool the institute to align with the Commission’s objectives and the “Knowledge Pillar” of the Strategic Plan.

Dr. Tijani warmly welcomed the NCC boss and acknowledged the crucial role of the telecom regulator in realizing the nation’s digital aspirations. He praised the NCC as a stellar agency and expressed his commitment to working together with Dr. Maida to achieve their shared goals and vision.

The visit concluded with a strong assurance from the Minister that they would collaborate closely to maximize the NCC’s potential and deliver greater value for the country.