Universal Access and Universal Service Regulations 2007

Regulations promote the extension of telecommunications and ICT services to underserved areas in Nigeria through a fund contributed by licensed operators. They target these operators for contributions and rural communities for improved access. This ensures affordable services for all Nigerians.

What Is This Policy?

Regulations issued by the NCC to promote the extension of telecommunications and ICT services to underserved and unserved areas of Nigeria, funded through a Universal Service Provision Fund contributed to by licensed operators.

Who Does It Target?

Licensed telecommunications operators contributing to the Universal Service Fund Underserved and rural communities lacking telecommunications access Universal Service Provision Fund administrators Technology providers and service delivery partners

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Bridge the digital divide by ensuring that Nigerians in rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged areas have access to basic telecommunications and internet services at affordable prices.

Key Features

Universal Service Fund: Contributions from licensed operators used to subsidize infrastructure in underserved areas Coverage Targets: Defined goals for extending network coverage to specified underserved communities Subsidy Mechanisms: Competitive bidding processes for awarding subsidies to operators serving unserved areas Community ICT Centres: Establishment of shared access facilities in areas without individual connectivity Monitoring and Reporting: Tracking of fund utilization and coverage expansion outcomes

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active with ongoing projects Coverage: Underserved and unserved areas across all states Lead Agency: NCC through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) Funding: Annual levy on licensed telecommunications operators

How to Access

Communities and local governments can engage with the USPF for connectivity projects. Identify underserved status through NCC coverage data USPF issues calls for proposals for coverage expansion projects Community leaders can petition the NCC for inclusion in future project phases

Official Resources

Website: ncc.gov.ng Contact: Universal Service Provision Fund, NCC, Abuja

Legal Framework

Issued under the regulatory powers of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) pursuant to the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 (NCA). The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) operates under the USPF Regulations. Aligns with ITU guidelines on universal service obligations, the NCC Consumer Code of Practice Regulations, and the National Broadband Plan. Implementation is coordinated with the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.