Telecoms sector contributes N500b to economy, says NCC boss

WHILE the worth of the telecommunications industry is put at over $32 billion, it’s contributions to government coffers (Consolidated Revenue Account) in the last 13 years of Nigeria’s telecoms revolution is estimated at about N500 billion.

Besides, the sector was said to have created about 2.5 million jobs directly and indirectly and contributed 9.5 per cent to the countries Gross Domestic Product as at December 2014. The sector can also boast of over 150 million subscribers; 98 million Internet users and 108 per cent teledensity mark.

Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) making these disclosures yesterday in Lagos, Prof. Umar Danbatta at his maiden international press conference, said the revenue to government coffers were earnings from spectrum sales, taxes and other telecommunications earning activities between 2001 and 2014.

The NCC chief used the occasion to reveal that the agency has been informed by MTN about its withdrawal of the court case as regards the N1.4 trillion fine slammed on them by the commission for contravening regulatory orders on SIM registration procedures.

Danbatta also unveiled his eight-point agenda for the industry.

According to him, these included the facilitation of broadband penetration through provision and optimisation access to and use of affordable fixed and mobile broadband in Nigeria; optimise usage and benefits of spectrum; improve quality of service; promote ICT innovation and investment opportunities; facilitate strategic collaboration and partnership with relevant stakeholders.

Others are protect and empower consumers from unfair practices; promote fair competition and inclusive growth by creating a competitive market for ICT and lastly, ensure regulatory excellence and operational efficiency through effective regulatory framework.