OAU Research Group Calls for Transparency in Nigerian Telecom Competition Study

The Pervasive and Mobile Computing Research Group (PMCRG) at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is urging the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to publicly disclose the findings of a 2022 study on telecommunications competition in Nigeria. This study, conducted by the global consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), focuses on collocation and infrastructure sharing (CIS) within the telecom sector.

Despite the study’s completion in 2022, the results remain unpublished. Professor Adeniran Oluwaranti, who leads the PMCRG, emphasizes the importance of this study for understanding the competitive dynamics in Nigeria’s telecom industry, particularly in collocation and infrastructure sharing.

"The CIS segment is crucial for fostering competition within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector," said Prof. Oluwaranti. "Releasing the findings will provide stakeholders with essential insights into the competitive landscape, challenges, and opportunities for growth. This transparency is key to enhancing regulatory frameworks and spurring innovation in areas such as 5G/6G networks, cybersecurity, and rural connectivity."

The PMCRG believes that access to this data will significantly benefit academic research, policy development, and industry innovation. It will also support the goals of the Africa Centre of Excellence, which aims to advance ICT education and innovation across Africa.

The group's request aligns with the Freedom of Information Act and Section 70 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which advocate for transparency and public access to information.