FG Moves To Harmonise Digital Regulations, Orders Agencies To End Overlapping Rules
FG Moves to Harmonise Digital Regulations, Orders Agencies to End Overlapping Rules The Federal Government has directed regulatory agencies under the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to adopt a coordinated approach in regulating internet platforms and online intermediaries as part of efforts to reduce conflicting rules within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, following a strategic meeting with the leadership of key agencies, including the Nigerian Communications Commission NCC, the National Information Technology Development Agency NITDA and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission NDPC. The government said the rapid expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy has created areas where the responsibilities of different regulators now intersect, particularly in areas such as internet platforms, artificial intelligence, online safety, telecommunications and data governance. According to the ministry, the goal of the new approach is to create a clearer regulatory environment that supports innovation, protects consumers and improves confidence among investors and digital businesses.
Under the new arrangement, agencies have been instructed to maintain the existing regulatory framework while ongoing discussions continue on a unified national policy and governance structure for cross-cutting digital issues. Recently introduced regulations, guidelines or requirements affecting areas under review are to be deferred until the harmonisation process is completed.
The ministry stressed that the directive does not remove or weaken the legal responsibilities of the individual agencies. Regulations that fall clearly within the statutory mandates of the NCC, NITDA and NDPC will continue to apply, provided they align with the government’s coordinated policy direction. To oversee the process, the government has established a Joint Technical Coordination Committee made up of representatives from the relevant agencies. The committee will consult with technology companies, civil society groups, academics and other stakeholders while developing recommendations for a harmonised digital regulatory framework. Industry stakeholders have previously raised concerns about multiple compliance requirements affecting companies operating in Nigeria’s technology sector. Businesses have argued that unclear or overlapping regulations can increase costs and create uncertainty for investors. The government said the harmonisation effort is intended to ensure that regulators operate with a common direction while preserving their individual mandates. Officials added that the move is aimed at strengthening digital trust, encouraging innovation and positioning Nigeria as a leading digital economy in Africa.
