International A2P Messaging Aggregator Services now available for licensing by foreign entities within Nigeria, overseen by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a new licensing framework for International Application-to-Person (A2P) Messaging Aggregator Services. This move aims to establish a structured and transparent approach for managing international messaging flows, thereby enhancing service integrity and regulatory clarity across Nigeria's telecommunications landscape.
## Key Features of the Framework
The new licensing framework is designed to provide a competitive, secure, and efficient environment for the A2P messaging sector in Nigeria. Here are its key features:
### Eligibility and Licensing Requirements
The licensing framework is not open to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) but focuses on specialized messaging aggregators that facilitate international traffic routing. Interested applicants may partner with one competent technical partner if necessary.
Entities must secure a five-year license at a cost of N10 million. Only companies with a proven track record of ethical and secure operations are considered for licensing.
### Compliance Requirements
Licensees must adhere to strict data protection and encryption standards. Regular reports, including traffic volumes and pricing data, must be submitted to the NCC. Licensees must also interconnect with other licensees and not discriminate against other operators. The use of unauthorized or unofficial channels (grey routes) to deliver SMS is prohibited.
### Goals and Benefits
The new licensing framework supports Nigeria's broader goals of digital sovereignty and cybersecurity by ensuring sensitive communication data is not routed through unsafe or unmonitored international paths. It is expected to boost investment and innovation in the A2P messaging sector, enhancing the quality and security of international messaging services in Nigeria.
## Application and Support
Application forms and full guidelines, including the A2P Framework and fee structure, are available on the NCC website. A 5% non-refundable administrative charge applies at the point of application. Interested applicants must submit completed application forms and all supporting documents within seven (7) days of the publication date.
For inquiries, applicants can contact the Director of the Licensing and Authorisation Department via [email protected]. The NCC's new licensing framework is part of its ongoing efforts to maintain a robust and effective regulatory framework for the telecommunications industry in Nigeria.
In the new licensing framework for International Application-to-Person (A2P) Messaging Aggregator Services, entities must secure a five-year license at a cost of N10 million, ensuring mobile security as only companies with a proven track record of ethical and secure operations are considered for licensing. To maintain data security, licensees must adhere to strict data protection and encryption standards, thus utilizing advanced technology for secure international messaging services in Nigeria.
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