On Wednesday in Abuja, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) convened industry stakeholders to discuss a proposed cost-based pricing structure for shared ducts linked to the nation’s Dig-Once policy. The forum focused on validating a consultancy report aimed at establishing an equitable framework for infrastructure access.
Mrs. Omotayo Mohammed, head of the Commission’s Competition and Tariff department, explained that Silicon Base Limited was hired in 2023 to address specific gaps in the draft Dig-Once policy. She emphasized that the success of the initiative hinges on creating a transparent pricing model that balances the needs of providers and consumers.
The Dig-Once initiative is designed to lower the costs and complexity associated with network deployment. By encouraging coordinated civil works, it prevents repeated excavations and promotes the shared use of underground conduits. Participants at the forum were invited to review the study’s methodologies and assumptions to ensure the final framework is both practical and sustainable for the Nigerian market.
The NCC remains dedicated to a collaborative approach to ensure the policy fosters broadband growth while protecting ongoing infrastructure investments. Feedback from this session will be integrated into the final model, which seeks to streamline connectivity efforts across the country.
