The Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof Umar Danbatta, announced that the Commission is in talks with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet network, to make internet services more affordable and accessible in underserved areas of Nigeria. Additionally, he emphasized the Commission’s dedication to combating electronic fraud within the telecommunications industry.
During the Q2 Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) 2023 open forum in Lagos, Danbatta discussed the topic of combating e-fraud on the telecom platform and building consumer confidence in the digital economy. He mentioned that the NCC recently granted a license to Starlink for its operations in Nigeria.
Danbatta expressed the NCC’s efforts to engage with Starlink in order to make their services more affordable for people in rural areas. He emphasized the significance of satellite communication services in connecting previously unconnected Nigerians. The NCC is working to address access gaps by deploying fixed and wireless infrastructure in underserved areas.
He highlighted the high bandwidth capabilities of Starlink’s terminals but stressed the need to lower their prices. This measure is part of the Commission’s strategy to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity across the country.
The EVC of NCC says that addressing e-fraud on telecom platforms and fostering consumer confidence in the digital economy necessitates a collaborative approach. Telecom operators, regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and consumers must work together, each fulfilling their roles.
He says this entails investing in strong security infrastructure, implementing strict protocols, raising awareness, and promoting innovation. Through these efforts, a secure digital ecosystem can be established, instilling trust and unlocking the full potential of the digital economy.
According to the Chairman of ICAF, Mazi Akpa Emeka, the evolving landscape of fraud threats necessitates organizations and industry stakeholders to proactively address vulnerabilities stemming from new fraud methods and patterns.
Supporting Emeka’s viewpoint, the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau at NCC, Alhaji Alkasim Abubakar, emphasizes the importance of education, information sharing, and multiple avenues for consumer redress in safeguarding telecom consumers and enhancing their experience in the digital economy. By fostering digital literacy and resilience, we can collectively build a culture that secures our nation’s digital future.
