Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Chairman of NCC, stated this on Thursday at the “NCC Day” during the 18th Abuja International Trade Fair organised by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with the theme – ‘Sustainable Financing and Taxation’.
The EVC, who was represented by the Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Mallam Alkasim Umar, said as the telecommunications industry continues to growth and evolve, there was the need to address the issue of sustainable financing and taxation to ensure its long term viability.
“Sustainable financing and taxation is very apt and timely, especially considering the pivotal role the telecommunications industry play in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens across the globe” Danbatta said.
He added: “As the telecommunications regulator in Nigeria, we bear the responsibility of ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the sector.
“Sustainable financing in telecommunication involves sourcing the necessary capital to build and maintain robust telecommunications networks.
“As regulators, we understand that this financing should be stable, accessible and conducive for industry growth.
“Taxation while essential for funding of Government initiatives must strike a delicate balance between revenue generation and industry growth.”
He pointed out that NCC, as a regular advocates fair taxation practices that do not stifle innovation or place undue burden on consumers.
“We acknowledge the intricacies of tax policies but emphasise the importance of creating an environment where telecommunications companies can thrive.
“To address these challenges, the Commission continuously engages both the Federal and State Governments on the need to harmonise taxation in the telecommunications sector.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Ayanbanji Ojo, Head, Consumer Policy Development and Monitoring, restated NCC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring fair competition and a level-playing field for all stakeholders in the telecommunication industry, particularly in safeguarding the interest of consumers from abuse of their rights and privilege, and against unfair practices in the telecom service value chain.
Ojo, who represented Umar, the Head, Consumer Policy Development and Monitoring, noted that NCC had demonstrated commitment through continuous efforts to establish seamless programmes that would Protect, Inform and Educate (PIE Mandate) telecom consumers through various consumer-centric initiatives.