The Nigerian Communications Commission has unveiled a comprehensive regulatory framework for Application-to-Person messaging services, aiming to curb revenue leakages, enhance security, and bring order to Nigeria’s rapidly expanding automated messaging sector.

The new rules mandate that all businesses, telecom operators, and aggregators providing A2P services—such as bank alerts, promotional SMS, and automated notifications—obtain a five-year operating license from the NCC at a cost of N10 million.

Additionally, international A2P messages must now be routed through NCC-approved channels to ensure compliance, reduce fraud, and maintain service quality.

A2P messaging is a vital communication tool for industries including banking, fintech, aviation, healthcare, and political campaigns, enabling timely and automated customer engagement.

“It has been observed that the excessive use of the Short Message Service has led to fraud, spam and illegal activities. The problem is likely to worsen as mobile connectivity and digital services continue to grow exponentially,” the NCC stated.

The NCC said the new licensing regime is designed to protect consumers from unsolicited messages, enhance transparency in message delivery, and ensure that stakeholders—particularly local telecom operators—receive a fair share of revenue from international traffic.

The Commission added that the establishment of a Single Platform will enable greater control over international A2P SMS traffic, ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing market oversight.

In addition to the ₦10 million licensing fee, the framework outlines further obligations for A2P providers, including mandatory adherence to data protection and encryption standards.

Licensees are also required to submit regular reports to the NCC detailing traffic volumes and pricing data.

Also, they must interconnect with other licensed providers and are prohibited from blocking or discriminating against other operators.