NCC launches initiative to tackle fraud, spam messaging

• Published On: 21 December 2024 at 19:39

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 seeks to improve the integrity of messaging services, resulting in a more secure and 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 stated that the proposed regulatory framework is an important step towards improving 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 NCC's Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, and represented by the Acting Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Chizua Whyte, seeks 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, such as consumer protection, fraud, data privacy concerns, and unequal value distribution within the ecosystem.

"The international A2P messaging space in Nigeria has gaps that have resulted in fraud, spam, and data privacy concerns. "These challenges endanger the long-term growth of this communication tool," the NCC stated.

The NCC emphasised its commitment to encouraging innovation while maintaining a secure and transparent environment for businesses, consumers, and service providers.

"This forum is a significant step towards addressing these challenges. "We are here to work with all stakeholders—operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers—to improve the framework and ensure it meets the needs of the entire ecosystem," the NCC stated.

The NCC emphasised the importance of inclusion and collaboration in creating an effective regulatory environment.

By involving all relevant stakeholders—service providers, consumers, and industry experts—the Commission hopes to develop a comprehensive framework that addresses challenges and promotes a balanced, well-regulated ecosystem.