By NIMASA and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have agreed to work together with relevant stakeholders as NIMASA moves closer to developing regulations for submarine cable and pipeline operators in Nigeria. This decision was made during a pre-audit meeting on submarine cable regulation held in Lagos.
Dr. Bashir Jamoh, the Director General of NIMASA, who led the meeting, highlighted the agency’s commitment to making business easier while also following international rules Nigeria has adopted. He explained that as Nigeria becomes a hub for global communications, it’s important to regulate the laying of underwater cables to ensure they don’t pose risks to shipping activities.
Dr. Jamoh said, “Submarine cable laying has been happening in Nigerian waters for over 20 years. Our focus is on ensuring the safety of navigation as more cables are laid.” He added that NIMASA is working on guidelines to regulate submarine cable operators based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which Nigeria has agreed to follow. He stressed that cooperation between agencies is essential for making things easier and protecting the country’s interests.
Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, who was represented by Efosa Idehen, the Director of Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement, praised NIMASA for involving stakeholders in creating the regulations. He encouraged NIMASA to also include the Ministry of Justice in the process, which Dr. Jamoh agreed to do.
Mr. Dasuki Arabi, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, praised the cooperation between NIMASA and NCC, saying it will help prevent potential problems in the future.
NIMASA had previously informed submarine cable operators in Nigeria about the upcoming guidelines. Both NIMASA and NCC agreed to resolve any potential overlaps in regulations to ensure a smooth path for the development of Nigeria’s digital economy.
Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment and submarine cable operators were also at the meeting.
