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Commission calls on NANS to lead awareness campaigns as telecom vandalism, fibre theft, and right-of-way challenges threaten service delivery.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on Nigerian students to actively protect telecommunications infrastructure across the country, describing such facilities as critical national assets that support education, innovation, economic growth, and digital connectivity.
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The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, made the call during a courtesy and familiarisation visit by the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to the Commission’s Head Office on Friday in Abuja.
NCC Commends New NANS Leadership
The EVC, who was represented by the Director of the Public Affairs Department, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, congratulated the newly elected NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, and members of the association’s executive council on their emergence. He commended the smooth transition in the leadership of the student body.
Dr. Maida noted that the longstanding relationship between the NCC and NANS has continued to flourish because of mutual respect, dialogue, and constructive engagement, expressing confidence that the current leadership would build on the achievements of its predecessors.
Call to Protect Critical Infrastructure
Speaking on challenges facing the telecommunications industry, Dr. Maida identified vandalism of telecommunications facilities, theft of fibre optic cables and network equipment, destruction of infrastructure, and right-of-way challenges as major factors affecting service delivery across the country.
“Telecommunications infrastructure remains the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy and plays a crucial role in learning, research, innovation and communication. Students can support national efforts aimed at protecting telecommunications infrastructure through awareness and responsible civic engagement,” he said.
Initiatives for Digital Inclusion and Youth Engagement
The EVC also highlighted several initiatives being implemented by the Commission to advance digital inclusion and create opportunities for young Nigerians. These include:
- Deployment of digital infrastructure through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF)
- Establishment of Digital Parks in tertiary institutions across the country
- Ongoing efforts to support digital learning and innovation
“The Commission is currently consulting stakeholders on a proposed framework that may enable access to certain approved educational platforms under specific conditions without data charges,” he added.
Consumer Protection and Student Awareness
On consumer protection, Dr. Maida reiterated the NCC’s commitment to ensuring adequate protection of consumers under the regulatory framework. He encouraged students to utilise consumer education resources available on the Commission’s website to better understand data management, consumer rights, and complaint resolution mechanisms.
NANS President Commends NCC Engagement
Earlier, the President of NANS, Comrade Akinteye, expressed appreciation to the NCC for maintaining a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the student body over the years. He commended the Commission for its openness to strengthening engagement through dialogue and mutual understanding.
He acknowledged the role of the NCC in fostering a culture of dialogue and stakeholder engagement, noting that the Commission’s approach has continued to encourage the student body to pursue peaceful and responsible advocacy on national issues.
