The Nigerian Communications Commission has introduced a draft regulatory framework to tackle issues like fraud, spam, and other challenges in the Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging sector.
This initiative aims to improve the integrity of messaging services, ensuring a safer and more efficient communication environment for consumers and businesses.
This was disclosed in a statement by the NCC during a virtual Stakeholders’ Forum on Friday.
The regulator emphasized that the proposed regulatory framework is a crucial step towards enhancing the integrity of the A2P messaging sector.
This aims to create a fair and transparent environment, ensuring that all stakeholders—service providers, consumers, and businesses—benefit from a more secure and regulated messaging ecosystem.
The draft framework, presented by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida and represented by the NCC’s Acting Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Chizua Whyte, aims to regulate the A2P (Application-to-Person) messaging space.
A2P messaging, which is widely used for bank alerts, promotional campaigns, and government updates, has become an essential communication tool in Nigeria.
However, the sector faces significant challenges, including consumer protection issues, fraud, data privacy concerns, and an unequal distribution of value within the ecosystem.
“The international A2P messaging space in Nigeria faces gaps that have led to issues such as fraud, spam, and data privacy concerns. These challenges threaten the sustainable growth of this communication tool,” the NCC stated.
The NCC emphasized its commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring a secure and transparent environment for businesses, consumers, and service providers.
“This forum marks a pivotal step towards addressing these challenges. We are here to engage with all stakeholders—operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers—to refine the framework and ensure it meets the needs of the entire ecosystem,” the NCC noted.
The NCC noted the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in developing an effective regulatory environment.
By engaging all relevant stakeholders—service providers, consumers, and industry experts—the Commission seeks to create a comprehensive framework that addresses challenges and promotes a balanced, well-regulated ecosystem.
