Governing Board: How NCC leadership turns policy direction into zero-rated digital learning initiative

*Chief Idris Olorunnimbe, Chairman, Governing Board of of the Nigerian Communications Commission, affirms the launch of the NCC Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms Initiative is not just about ‘free data’, but removing one more barrier between a Nigerian child and knowledge to participate in Nigeria’s digital future

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The leadership of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has assured over five million student beneficiaries of the newly-activated multibillion Naira NCC Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms Initiative of its commitment to advancing the digital learning concept across the country.

ConsumerConnect reports Chief Idris Olorunnimbe, Chairman, Governing Board of NCC, stated this after the launch of the initiative Thursday, September 10, 2026, in Abuja, FCT.

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Chief Olorunnimbe said the recent launch was just the beginning, and leadership of the telecoms sector regulatory Commission and other industry stakeholders continue to improve, and deepen the initiative, and extend its reach to every Nigerian learner.

How simple conviction led to zero-rated data access initiative, by Olorunnimbe

Highlighting the initial efforts that later culminated in the official activation of the initiative, the NCC Board Chairman in a blog note, said the event “marked an important milestone for the Nigerian Communications Commission and, more importantly, for Nigerian students.”

Giving an insight into how the NCC conceived and introduced the initiative, Olorunnimbe stated: “We formally launched the NCC Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms Initiative, built on a simple conviction: the cost of data should never determine whether a Nigerian child can access knowledge.

“I took the proposal to the Board, and I am grateful that it embraced the vision.”

He also explained: “From there, the EVC/CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, with the Management and Staff of the NCC, did the hard work of turning that policy direction into a programme that can reach millions of learners.”

Appreciation to President Tinubu, Ministers, other industry stakeholders

The Board Chairman applauded the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to expanding opportunity, strengthening human capital, and ensuring that more Nigerians could participate meaningfully in the country’s digital future.

He equally wrote: “My appreciation goes to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, an active partner whose Ministry has been central to this NCC-led initiative.

“I thank the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and Idris Saliu-Alubankudi, Special Adviser to the President on Technology and Digital Economy, for their support.”

According to him, none of this could work without the telecommunications industry’s support.

Olorunnimbe thanked the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), led by Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, and the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), for their commitment to making zero-rating a reality.

“It was equally encouraging to see voices from our creative community stand with us, including Don Jazzy, Teni, who delivered a goodwill message, Reekado Banks, Amara Kanu, Mimi Onalaja and David Makinde.

“Their presence reinforced the need for education, technology and culture to work together for our young people,” noted he.

The Chairman of the NCC Board of Commissioners further stated: “I was grateful to have my wife, Abisoye, and my brothers, AbdulRasheed, Oluwaseun, Terfa and John, with me.

“I also thank the CC Team for the research, preparation, and logistical work behind moments like this.”

Olorunnimbe averred that the zero-rated data access programme is not simply about free data.

He restated that “it is about removing one more barrier between a Nigerian child and knowledge”, and reflects the commitment of President Tinubu to expanding opportunity, strengthening human capital and ensuring more Nigerians get involved in in the country’s digital future.

“The launch … was also the beginning. We will continue to improve and deepen this initiative, and extend its reach to every Nigerian learner we can,” Chief Olorunnimbe said.