The NCC boss, at the 18th Abuja International Trade Fair, called for fair taxation in the Telecoms sector to enhance the progress and sustainability of the sector.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for sustainable financing and fair taxation in the telecommunications sector, for the sector to remain resilient and continue to catalyze progress in the interconnected world.
Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Chairman of NCC, stated this on Thursday at the “NCC Day” during the 18th Abuja International Trade Fair organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Danbatta, represented by Mallam Alkasim Umar, Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, said as the telecommunications industry continues to grow and evolve, there was a need to address the issue of sustainable financing and taxation to ensure its long-term viability.
He said: “Sustainable financing and taxation is very apt and timely, especially considering the pivotal role the telecommunications industry plays in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens across the globe.
“As the telecommunications regulator in Nigeria, we bear the responsibility of ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the sector. Sustainable financing in telecommunication involves sourcing the necessary capital to build and maintain robust telecommunications networks.
“As regulators, we understand that this financing should be stable, accessible, and conducive for industry growth. Taxation while essential for funding of Government initiatives must strike a delicate balance between revenue generation and industry growth.”
He pointed out that NCC, as a regular advocates fair taxation practices that do not stifle innovation or place undue burden on consumers.
“We acknowledge the intricacies of tax policies but emphasise the importance of creating an environment where telecommunications companies can thrive. To address these challenges, the Commission continuously engages both the Federal and State Governments on the need to harmonise taxation in the telecommunications sector.”
On his part, Mallam Alkasim Umar, Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau in NCC, reiterated NCC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring fair competition and a level playing field for all stakeholders in the telecommunication industry, particularly in safeguarding the interest of consumers from abuse of their rights and privilege, and against unfair practices in the telecom service value chain.
Umar represented by Mr. Ayanbanji Ojo, Head, Consumer Policy Development and Monitoring, explained that NCC had demonstrated commitment through continuous efforts to establish seamless programmes that would Protect, Inform, and Educate (PIE Mandate) telecom consumers through various consumer-centric initiatives.
