By Milcah Tanimu
A research group, under the Pervasive and Mobile Computing Research Group (PMCRG) at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), has formally requested the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to release a 2022 telecom competition report. The group, leveraging the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, is seeking transparency regarding the findings of a study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
The report, which focuses on collocation and infrastructure sharing (CIS) within Nigeria’s telecom industry, remains unpublished, prompting the group led by Professor Adeniran Oluwaranti to demand its release.
Professor Oluwaranti emphasized the importance of the report, noting that transparency in the telecom sector is essential for fostering competition and innovation. “The CIS segment ensures fair competition within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. Access to this report will provide critical insights, especially in areas like 5G/6G networks, cybersecurity, and rural connectivity,” he stated.
The findings could help regulators improve Nigeria’s ICT framework, positively impacting both consumers and businesses. It could also shed light on market dynamics, helping researchers develop strategies for emerging technologies.
For consumers, the report could reveal the level of competition in the telecom industry, ensuring fair pricing and service improvements. For businesses, it may highlight new opportunities for infrastructure sharing, promoting sector growth and innovation.
The PMCRG also noted that the report’s release aligns with the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, aiming to provide deeper insights into the telecom market.
Although the NCC has not yet responded to the FOI request, Professor Oluwaranti remains optimistic. “Transparency is key to fostering an innovative telecommunications sector. Access to this data will benefit the academic community and promote evidence-based policymaking,” he added.
The PMCRG operates under OAU’s Africa Centre of Excellence, a recognized leader in telecommunications research, continuing to drive ICT advancements across Nigeria and Africa.
– The FOI request aligns with the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.
– PMCRG focuses on telecom policy, infrastructure sharing, and market behavior research.
– The group seeks the report to advance academic and industry innovation.
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