Efforts by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to remove data cost barriers to digital learning received broad support as key stakeholders endorsed the Commission’s proposed framework for providing zero-rated access to accredited educational platforms and content across Nigeria.
The endorsement came at the Commission’s maiden public consultation on the proposed “Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content in Nigeria” framework held in Abuja, where participants described the initiative as a timely intervention that could expand educational opportunities, deepen digital inclusion and improve access to online learning for millions of Nigerians.
The consultation brought together representatives of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Federal Ministry of Education, 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 organisations from the public and private sectors.
While expressing support for the initiative, stakeholders stressed that its success would depend on closer collaboration among government agencies, telecommunications operators, educational institutions and development partners. They also called for sustained investments in broadband infrastructure and network expansion, noting that affordable and reliable internet connectivity remains critical to the long-term success of zero-rated educational services.
Speaking during the consultation, Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman and chief executive officer of the NCC, said the Commission established an Industry Committee to examine the technical, policy, regulatory and commercial issues surrounding the initiative before developing a consultation paper to seek wider public input.
Represented by Ayuba Shuaibu, director of Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis at the NCC, Maida said broad stakeholder engagement was essential to developing a framework that is practical, transparent and responsive to the needs of both the communications and education sectors.
He said the Commission was seeking contributions from network operators, educational institutions, content providers, government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, teachers, students and other stakeholders to ensure the framework reflects diverse perspectives while advancing national educational objectives.
According to him, collaboration will be key to balancing educational priorities with regulatory effectiveness, commercial viability, fairness and long-term sustainability.
Maida explained that the initiative forms part of the Commission’s broader digital inclusion strategy, aimed at leveraging technology to improve access to education and bridge learning gaps across the country.
He said the proposed framework would enable students and other learners to access accredited educational platforms and digital learning materials without data charges or through specially supported access arrangements, thereby reducing one of the biggest obstacles to online education.
“The initiative also forms part of the Commission’s broader efforts to leverage technology in advancing national educational objectives and promoting inclusive digital participation,” he said.
Stakeholders also examined key aspects of the proposed framework, including implementation models, eligibility requirements for educational platforms, governance arrangements, consumer protection measures, operational guidelines and the criteria for accrediting learning resources that would qualify for zero-rated access.
The Commission said feedback and recommendations received during the consultation would be incorporated into the final framework and guide the development of an implementation roadmap.
According to Maida, the initiative is expected to strengthen national efforts to expand access to education, improve digital literacy and harness technology as a driver of socio-economic development.
