National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has said it will go on with the implementation of internet regulation and warned that no interest group was powerful enough to stop it from implementing its mandate.
NITDA, which said it enjoys a harmonious relationship with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and other regulators, noted that other government agencies in the sector have a clear mandate and enabling laws that propel their operations.
The clarification and warning, according to NITDA, became necessary following a recent outcry by the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), alleging that “NITDA is trying to usurp the regulatory functions of the NCC.”
NITDA insisted that every one of its regulations are in the interest of the sector, and the public as a whole.
The agency also said that it was actively collaborating with other regulators in the information technology sector in the implementation of its Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, 2019.
Emmanuel Edet, head, Legal Services and Board Matters in NITDA, said these in a statement that was made available to our correspondent in Abuja.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria had said that the data policy would result in regulatory friction between NITDA and the Nigerian Communications Commission.
ALTON said there was a need for an urgent intervention by the NCC to safeguard the interest of market players and preserve the powers of the commission.
Responding to the development, NITDA said that the telecommunication operators were attempting to set two government agencies (NITDA and NCC) against each other.
Advising against such action, the agency said it had been engaging other regulators in the sector on all regulations and guidelines.
Edet said, “For avoidance of doubt, NITDA has enjoyed a cordial relationship with all sector regulators and we have consistently engaged them on all regulations and guidelines issued by the agency.
“In this vein, NITDA has significantly socialised the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation 2019 and the Public Internet Access Regulation 2019.”
He added, “The agency is delighted with the support of several institutions in complying and promoting these regulations.
“While it is a global practice for sector regulators to give sector- specific directives and regulations on how certain issues are to be addressed, this does not restrict the right of government agencies to issue regulations which cover the field as is the case in this matter.”