Senate Approves Idris Olorunnimbe As New NCC Board Chairman
The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Idris Olorunnimbe as the new Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The confirmation was made on Tuesday during the Senate plenary session in Abuja after the presentation of the report from the Senate Committee on Communications. The report was presented by the committee chairman, Senator Aliyu Bilbis.
Alongside Olorunnimbe’s confirmation as chairman, the Senate also approved several new commissioners who will serve on the NCC board. Those confirmed include Senator Ramoni Mustapha representing the South West region, Mr. Ikechukwu Ugwuegede from the South East, and Princess Oforitsenere Emiko from the South South.
Others who were confirmed for board positions are Mr. Christopher Okorie, also from the South South region, and Hajiya Maryam Bayi. These appointees are expected to work with the commission in overseeing Nigeria’s telecommunications policy framework, licensing, compliance, and development of communication services across the country.
The confirmation process followed the submission of their names by the Presidency and the subsequent screening carried out by the Senate Committee on Communications. The committee found all the nominees qualified and recommended them for approval.
The NCC plays a significant role as the regulatory body responsible for the growth and supervision of the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. As the sector continues to expand, particularly with advancements in 5G technology and digital services, this new board will be expected to provide strong leadership.
A key responsibility of the new chairman and board members will be ensuring that Nigeria’s telecom sector remains stable, competitive, and capable of supporting digital inclusion and economic development. This includes protecting consumer rights and improving network access nationwide.
Many Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the new board addresses ongoing issues in the sector, including high data costs, network quality, and rural connectivity. The appointment is coming at a time when telecom services have become essential for education, business, and communication across the country.
With the Senate confirmation now completed, the new board members are expected to assume their duties immediately and begin work with the NCC leadership to continue strengthening Nigeria’s communication infrastructure.
