Stakeholders Endorse NCC Plan to Eliminate Data Costs for Learning | ClipTV Online

Stakeholders from the telecommunications industry, development organisations, and the private sector have expressed strong support for the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) proposed framework to provide zero-rated access to educational platforms and digital learning content for students and learners across Nigeria.

The endorsement came during the Commission’s inaugural public consultation forum. The forum focused on the proposed framework, titled “Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria,” held in Abuja on Tuesday.

Participants described the initiative as a landmark intervention aimed at expanding digital inclusion. Also noting, it will improve access to quality education and bridging connectivity gaps that continue to limit learning opportunities for millions of Nigerians.

The forum attracted representatives from the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Federal Ministry of Education. Also, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), uLesson Group and other key stakeholders.

During the discussions, participants stressed the need for stronger collaboration among government, regulators, telecommunications operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), educational institutions and development partners. They also called for sustained investments in broadband infrastructure and network expansion to ensure reliable and affordable internet connectivity for learners nationwide.

In his opening address, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, disclosed that the Industry Committee established to develop the initiative had undertaken extensive reviews of its technical, policy, regulatory and commercial implications before producing a consultation paper for public engagement.

Represented by the Commission’s Director of Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis, Ayuba Shuaibu. Maida said broad stakeholder participation was essential to developing a practical and sustainable framework. He said that will reflects industry realities while advancing Nigeria’s educational objectives.

Maida further explained that the framework would benefit from the contributions of network operators. Adding educational institutions, content providers, government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, teachers, students and other beneficiaries.

According to him, the initiative seeks to eliminate data cost barriers by enabling access to accredited educational platforms and digital learning content at no charge or through specially supported access arrangements.

“The initiative forms part of the Commission’s broader efforts to leverage technology in advancing national educational objectives and promoting inclusive digital participation,” Maida said.

Stakeholders also reviewed the proposed implementation framework, examining issues relating to eligibility criteria for educational platforms, governance mechanisms, consumer protection, operational requirements and principles for accrediting educational content eligible for zero-rated access.

The NCC stated that recommendations received during the consultation would be incorporated into the final framework and implementation roadmap.

The Commission expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly expand educational opportunities, improve digital literacy and accelerate socio-economic development by making quality digital learning resources more accessible to Nigerians, regardless of their economic background.

Signed:

Nnenna Ukoha
Director, Public Affairs Department
July 15, 2026