NCC Urges Telcos to embrace Infrastructure Sharing to Reduce Operating Cost

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged telecommunications operators in the country to embrace infrastructure sharing to reduce their operating cost.

This call by the regulatory authority is coming on the heels of statement issued by both Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) for cost-reflective pricing model after 11 years.

Aminu Maida, executive vice-chairman, NCC, said during the 2nd edition of the West African Telecoms Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition at the weekend in Lagos that operators in the telecommunications sector could reduce their cost and enhance service delivery through partnerships.

Maida, who was represented by Mr Victor Adoga, head, Next Generation Technology and Standards at the NCC, said the short-term remedy is public-private partnerships, infrastructure funds, and innovative financing models like Infrastructure as a Service.

EVC NCC said, “Today, we boast of over 219 million mobile subscribers and a burgeoning tech-savvy population eager to harness digital technologies.

“However, while our growth has been remarkable, it has not been without its challenges. Issues such as uneven service distribution, infrastructural deficits, and regulatory uncertainties have occasionally hindered our progress.

“Yet, each challenge also presented a unique opportunity for growth and innovation.”

Consequently, Maida advised the operators to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize network management, predict maintenance needs, and enhance customer service through automation, and advanced analytics.

“Another strategy is developing smart infrastructure, because as cities become smarter, telecom infrastructure must evolve to support an array of smart city applications, from traffic management systems to public safety solutions,” he emphasized.