By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has invited members of the public and key industry stakeholders to participate in a public consultation on the potential opportunities, risks and public-interest considerations surrounding the introduction of Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in Nigeria.
The invitation was disclosed in an official statement signed by the Head of the Public Affairs Department of the NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, who explained that the consultation marks an important preliminary engagement with stakeholders ahead of any formal regulatory action by the Commission.
According to the NCC, the Consultation Paper forms part of its participatory and transparency-driven regulatory approach and is being conducted prior to the activation of any rule-making process under Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003. The Commission noted that the exercise is intended to deepen stakeholder understanding and gather diverse perspectives on emerging Satellite Direct-to-Device service models and their potential impact on Nigeria’s communications ecosystem.
The NCC stated that inputs received from stakeholders would support the Commission in developing a robust understanding of the technical, economic and public-interest implications of D2D connectivity, particularly as satellite-enabled services continue to evolve globally. Feedback from the consultation will also inform the Commission’s assessment and guide its decision-making on whether, and how, a regulatory framework for Satellite Direct-to-Device connectivity should be established in Nigeria.
Stakeholders have been requested to access the Consultation Paper through the link provided by the Commission, which contains detailed information on the proposed Direct-to-Device consultation as well as the specific questions for which feedback is being sought. The Commission emphasised that responses should be submitted through the online form embedded within the document to ensure proper collation and evaluation of submissions.
The NCC further stated that all contributions must be submitted on or before 23 February 2026, stressing that timely and informed stakeholder participation is critical to shaping a regulatory approach that balances innovation, consumer protection, industry sustainability and the broader public interest.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive regulation and evidence-based policy development, noting that the consultation represents another step in ensuring that Nigeria’s communications sector remains forward-looking, resilient and responsive to emerging technologies.
