The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on African countries to strengthen collaboration and adopt a unified position ahead of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) 2026 Conference, saying coordinated efforts are essential to shaping global telecommunications and digital economy policies.
According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, made the call at the opening of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference Preparatory Committee (CPC) meeting in Abuja.
Maida said the two day meeting is expected to enhance Africa’s alignment ahead of the ITU conference, establish practical mechanisms for cooperation among member states and promote sustained technical participation in global telecommunications processes.
He stressed that Africa’s influence at international forums would depend not on the size of its delegations but on the quality of its preparation, technical expertise and the ability to present unified positions on key issues affecting the continent.
The NCC boss identified spectrum management, artificial intelligence governance, cybersecurity, data protection, universal digital access and digital infrastructure development as critical areas requiring stronger cooperation among African nations.
He urged member states to actively support African experts in international technical discussions, noting that the continent should contribute to developing global standards that reflect African realities while meeting international requirements.
Maida also commended the African Telecommunications Union for strengthening coordination among member states and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the ITU process through technical expertise, regulatory cooperation and knowledge sharing.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nadungu Gagare, described the preparatory meeting as vital to advancing Africa’s digital transformation agenda. He expressed confidence that the committee’s recommendations would guide decisions at the upcoming ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries and promote inclusive digital development across the continent.
Also speaking, ATU Secretary General John Omo said the preparatory committee plays a key role in harmonising proposals before the main conference, ensuring member states present agreed positions on strategic issues.
Omo disclosed that ATU membership has expanded to 52 member states, with 56 associate members and 18 African academic institutions now participating in the union’s activities. He highlighted progress in broadband development, satellite communications, spectrum coordination, internet governance and digital infrastructure resilience.
However, he raised concerns over irregular financial contributions from some member states, warning that sustainable funding is necessary for the effective implementation of the union’s programmes.
The meeting also reviewed the ATU’s governance structure and preparations for the election of a new Secretary General and members of the Administrative Council for the 2027 to 2031 term.
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