The worth of the Nigerian telecommunications industry has been put at over $32 billion, while its contributions to the nation’s coffers in the last 13 years of Nigeria telecoms revolution have been estimated at about N500 billion.
Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, who made this revelation while unveiling his eight-point agenda for the industry, said the sector had created about 2.5 million jobs and contributed 9.5% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product as at december 2014.
He said the revenue to government coffers were earnings from spectrum sales, taxes and other telecommunications earning activities between 2001 and 2014.
The 8 point agenda included the facilitation of broadband penetration through provision and optimisation access to and use of affordable fixed and mobile broadband in Nigeria; optimisation of the usage and benefits of spectrum; improve quality of service; promote ICT innovation and investment opportunities; facilitate strategic collaboration and partnership with relevant stakeholders.
It also include to 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.