NCC Unveils A2P Licensing Framework to Enhance Messaging Ecosystem and Boost Telecoms Sector
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today convened a virtual Stakeholders' Forum as part of its participatory rule-making process, aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration on regulatory initiatives. The focus of the forum was the development of a licensing framework for a new category in the Nigerian telecom sector, referred to as the Application-to-Person (A2P) Messaging Licensing Framework.
The event featured insightful discussions on key issues, including a comprehensive presentation by the Licensing and Authorization Department of the NCC. This presentation shed light on the core aspects of the A2P Messaging Service and its regulatory implications.
This initiative underscores the NCC’s commitment to educating stakeholders on ongoing regulatory efforts while showcasing the potential benefits of the A2P Messaging Licensing Framework. It promises to enhance service delivery, drive growth in the telecom industry, and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasized the vital role of Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging in driving communication and socio-economic development in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Virtual Stakeholders' Forum on the Draft A2P Licensing Framework, Dr. Maida, represented by Mrs. Chizua Whyte, underscored the importance of A2P platforms for delivering critical notifications, including bank alerts, healthcare reminders, and government updates.
The forum provided a platform for deliberation on a proposed regulatory framework aimed at addressing significant challenges in the international A2P messaging ecosystem, including fraud, spam, and unequal value distribution. These issues, if left unchecked, threaten the sector's sustainability and consumer trust.
Dr. Maida highlighted the NCC's commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring fairness and consumer protection in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. He encouraged active collaboration among stakeholders, including operators, businesses, and consumers, to refine the framework.
Key Points from the Forum
1. Feedback and Consultation:
NCC presented feedback on the draft A2P Licensing Framework, addressing observations and recommendations from licensees.
The forum marks the beginning of broader consultations, with the NCC set to engage stakeholders further before finalizing the framework.
2. A2P Messaging Overview:
A2P messaging facilitates business communications, such as marketing, notifications, and transactional messages, via mobile networks and internet-based systems.
3. Current Issues in A2P Messaging:
The lack of regulation has led to revenue leakage, security vulnerabilities, and market inconsistencies.
4. Purpose of Licensing:
To standardize tariffs, enhance security, prevent fraud, and boost local revenue generation.
5. Key Licensing Features:
License fee: ₦10,000,000, renewable every five years.
Open to registered corporate entities in Nigeria with contracts with local operators.
Technical and security requirements include integration with local mobile network operators (MNOs) and compliance with data protection regulations.
6. Compliance and Penalties:
Providers must adhere to NCC regulations, including the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation and standardized tariffs. Non-compliance will attract penalties, including fines or license revocation.
7. Benefits of Licensing:
Improved security and consumer protection.
Increased local revenue and market oversight.
Enhanced trust and competitiveness in the telecoms market.
Conclusion:
The NCC’s proposed A2P Licensing Framework aims to establish a secure, regulated, and efficient A2P messaging ecosystem in Nigeria. It is designed to enhance consumer protection, promote fair competition, and contribute to the growth of the telecommunications sector. Dr. Maida urged participants to engage constructively and expressed gratitude for their contributions to the process.
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