By Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has been honoured as the 2022 Regulator of the Year at the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards. The award ceremony was held in Lagos on Friday, January 27, 2022.
Danbatta received the recognition for his outstanding leadership in the telecoms sector, which has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s digital economy. His efforts have strengthened regulatory practices and fostered growth in the industry.
Recognising Excellence
The event also celebrated other prominent Nigerians, including governors Babagana Zulum (Borno), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo). Business tycoon Aliko Dangote and other professionals were also recognised for their achievements and service to the nation.
Transforming Nigeria’s Telecom Industry
Danbatta has been instrumental in implementing policies and projects that have transformed the telecommunications sector. Under his leadership:
- Broadband penetration increased from 6% to over 30% by 2018.
- The NCC conducted a successful 5G spectrum auction.
- Emergency Communication Centres (ECCs) were revived, and the 112 emergency number was introduced.
These initiatives earned the NCC the International Public Relations Association Golden Award in 2021 for its role in managing communication during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An Inspiration Across Africa
Danbatta is widely regarded as a regulatory leader in Africa, inspiring other countries to adopt Nigeria’s telecom regulatory model. Despite his firm and decisive approach, he is known for being fair and collaborative, making him highly respected within and beyond the industry.
Academic Excellence
A professor of telecommunications engineering, Danbatta has supervised over 60 academic projects. He holds degrees from the Technical University of Wroclaw in Poland and a PhD from the University of Manchester.
Through his dedication and expertise, Danbatta continues to shape the future of telecommunications in Nigeria while remaining a humble and modest leader.
