By Emmanuel Thomas I March 25.26
JOS – In a strategic move to strengthen telecommunications infrastructure and accelerate the digital economy, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) paid a high-level courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House in Jos.
The visit, led by the NCC’s Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, aimed to foster a stronger partnership between the regulatory body and the state government. The discussions centered on improving service delivery, addressing Right of Way (RoA) challenges, and leveraging technology to drive economic growth in the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
During the meeting, Governor Mutfwang expressed his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the Commission, noting that digital connectivity is a vital pillar for modern governance and youth empowerment. He emphasized that Plateau State is looking to create an enabling environment for telecommunication companies to thrive, which in turn will provide better internet access and mobile services for the citizens.
Representing the NCC, Rimini Makama highlighted the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that all states in the federation are integrated into the national digital agenda. She commended the Governor for his vision and noted that Plateau’s cooperation is essential for the successful deployment of broadband and other critical infrastructure.
The delegation also included key NCC officials, including Helen Obi, Director of Digital Economy, and Lawrence Abang, Deputy Director of Legal and Regulatory Services, who engaged with state officials on the legal frameworks necessary to streamline telecom operations within the state.
The NCC has been on a nationwide drive to engage state governors to address recurring issues in the telecom sector, particularly Right of Way (RoA) charges and the protection of telecommunications infrastructure.
Historically, high RoA fees imposed by state governments have been a significant barrier to the expansion of fiber optic cables and 4G/5G networks. By visiting Plateau State, the NCC is continuing its advocacy for the “National Broadband Plan,” which seeks to achieve 70% broadband penetration across Nigeria.
Under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Plateau State has shown an increasing interest in digital transformation to revamp its civil service and boost its agricultural and tourism sectors through technology. This visit marks a formal beginning to aligning state policies with national regulatory standards.
