NCC to draft regulatory framework for automated mobile messages

Aminu Maida, executive vice-chairman (EV) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says the agency will launch a draft regulatory framework aimed at addressing fraud, spam, and data privacy concerns in the application-to-person (A2P) messaging sector.

Maida spoke during a virtual stakeholders’ forum on the draft A2P licensing framework held on Friday.

A2P messaging is the use of a business application to send mobile messages — for marketing — via an automated process to a mobile user.

Represented by Chizua Whyte, head, legal and regulatory services at NCC, Maida said A2P messaging plays a vital role in today’s digital world.

“It has become the go-to platform for businesses to send notifications, whether transactional, promotional, or service-related, directly to consumers,” he said.

“From bank alerts and healthcare reminders to promotional campaigns and government updates, A2P messaging drives efficiency, enhances communication, and supports our socio-economic development.”

Maida said the NCC prioritises the success of its A2P messaging platform by focusing on three key stakeholders: the government, consumers, and the industry.

“For the government, A2P messaging is a powerful tool for communication with citizens, enabling the efficient delivery of public services and information. For consumers, it guarantees timely, secure, and reliable access to essential updates and services,” he said.

“For the industry, it creates opportunities for businesses and service providers to innovate, drive competition, and achieve sustainable growth.

“Despite its undeniable value, the international A2P messaging space in Nigeria faces significant challenges, including consumer protection, fraud prevention, and ensuring industry fairness.”

Maida said the gaps have led to issues “such as fraud, spam, data privacy concerns, and an unequal distribution of value across the ecosystem”.

A2P MESSAGING ISSUES

In addition to having an impact on customers and businesses, the NCC EVC said the issues also jeopardise the long-term viability of the vital communication instrument.

“This forum marks a pivotal step toward addressing these challenges. Today we will be presenting the proposed regulatory framework for A2P messaging to you, our valued stakeholders, for deliberation,” he said.

“This framework represents our commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring that all players in the value chain operate in a fair, transparent, and secure environment.

“At the NCC, we firmly believe that effective regulation stems from inclusivity and collaboration.”

Maida said the forum invited all stakeholders, including operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers, to engage in meaningful discussions and provide perspectives, experiences, and recommendations to refine the framework so it meets the needs of all.

“Our goal is to create a sustainable and thriving A2P messaging ecosystem that protects consumers, promotes fair competition, and unlocks new opportunities for growth,” Maida said

To achieve the goal, Maida urged stakeholders to engage constructively, provide feedback, and contribute ideas “that will help shape the future of A2P messaging in Nigeria”.