Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC) has said that Nigeria’s Internet subscribers has hit 159,034,717 Million with broadband penetration at 45.57 per cent as at August, 2023.
The Commission also reiterated its position on fair taxation practices, saying that consumers shouldn’t be subjected to any condition that will stifle their drive for innovation.
This was disclosed by NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Danbatta on Thursday when he spoke during the Commission’s special day at the ongoing 18th Abuja International Trade Fair.
He explained that “In Nigeria today, the number of active mobile subscriptions reached 220,715,961 million as at August 2023, while Teledensity stood at 115.63 per cent at the same period. Also, the number of active In Nigeria today, the number of active mobile subscriptions reached 220,715,961 million as at August 2023, while Teledensity stood at 115.63 per cent at the same period. Also, the number of active Internet subscribers was 159,034,717 Million with broadband penetration at 45.57 per cent as at August, 2023.
“In this new environment, the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses depends on their ability to leverage on new technologies by acquiring the necessary digital skills to do business on an international scale. This in turn benefits the economy financially. with broadband penetration at 45.57 per cent as at August, 2023. In this new environment, the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses depends on their ability to leverage on new technologies by acquiring the necessary digital skills to do business on an international scale. This in turn benefits the economy financially”.
The EVC who was represented by the Commission’s Director, Consumer Affairs, Mr Umar Alkasim, said that the commission has remained constant in advocating for fair practices that will develop the industry, without being detrimental to any party.
He said, “Our role as regulator, is to advocate for fair taxation practices that do not stifle innovation or place undue burden on consumers.
“We acknowledge the intricacies of tax policies but emphasize the importance of creating an environment where telecommunications companies can thrive. To address these challenges the Commission continuously engage both the Federal and State Government on the need to harmonize taxation in the telecommunications sector.
“NCC’s regulatory efforts in deepening access to digital services will benefit Nigeria and make it competitive comparable with other economies in the areas of job creation; contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth; emergence of new services and industries; workforce transformation; and business innovation.
“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 added.
