As the curtains fell on the 26th African Telecommunications Union Conference of Plenipotentiaries (ATU-CPL-26) in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida, has reflected on what he described as a defining moment for Nigeria and the African telecommunications community, applauding stakeholders whose collective efforts delivered a successful continental gathering.
The week-long conference, which attracted policymakers, regulators and telecommunications experts from across the African Telecommunications Union’s member states, provided a strategic platform for deliberations on issues shaping the future of digital connectivity and regional cooperation. It also enabled member countries to harmonise Africa’s position ahead of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference scheduled for November.
For Maida, the successful hosting of the conference underscored Nigeria’s growing influence in Africa’s digital transformation agenda and its readiness to champion policies that will strengthen the continent’s voice in global telecommunications governance.
He reserved special commendation for the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, whose leadership, he noted, was instrumental in ensuring the success of the conference.
According to Maida, the commitment of the minister, alongside the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the NCC and other stakeholders, enabled Nigeria to provide a conducive environment for meaningful dialogue and consensus-building among African nations.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the conference, the NCC chief said the seven-day event went beyond formal deliberations, describing it as an opportunity to deepen relationships, exchange ideas and strengthen regional collaboration.
“In seven productive days, we exchanged ideas, debated diverse perspectives, built consensus and reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing Africa’s digital future through stronger regional cooperation,” he said.
He added that engagements with fellow regulators and industry leaders across the continent offered valuable insights into both the opportunities and the challenges confronting Africa’s telecommunications sector, while reinforcing the need for greater collaboration in addressing common priorities.
Looking beyond the conference, Maida reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to continue playing a prominent role in shaping global telecommunications policies through active participation at the forthcoming ITU Plenipotentiary Conference.
“As we look ahead to the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference, Nigeria remains committed to being a strong, constructive and reliable voice for Africa on the global stage,” he stated.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s resolve to seek re-election to the ITU Council, describing the bid as part of the country’s broader commitment to promoting Africa’s collective interests and strengthening the continent’s influence within the global telecommunications ecosystem.
The conference also witnessed a change of leadership within the African Telecommunications Union, with Engr. Kezias Kazuba Mwale of Zambia elected as Secretary-General for the 2027–2031 term.
Congratulating the incoming Secretary-General, Maida expressed optimism that the new leadership would further deepen regional cooperation and accelerate the development of telecommunications across Africa.
He equally paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Secretary-General, Mr John Omo, acknowledging his eight years of dedicated service and leadership to the Union.
“It has been a privilege working with you, and I wish you every success in the next chapter of your journey,” Maida said.
The successful conclusion of ATU-CPL-26 has been widely regarded as another demonstration of Nigeria’s capacity to host major international policy engagements and a significant step in strengthening Africa’s collective resolve to build an inclusive, innovative and digitally connected future.