ALTON plans first telecoms compliance forum

By Chinenye Anuforo

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has thrown its full weight behind the Federal Government’s ongoing fiscal and tax reforms, describing them as bold interventions that will reshape the operational environment of Nigeria’s telecom industry.

The endorsement comes as ALTON announces the first-ever Telecoms Industry Compliance Management Forum (CMF), an initiative aimed at institutionalising compliance, improving governance, and strengthening industry self-regulation across the digital economy.

The Forum, endorsed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is scheduled to hold on November 25, 2025, in Lagos.

Addressing journalists ahead of the event, ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, said the reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are already helping to dismantle one of the industry’s longest-standing challenges, multiple taxation.

“For many years, our sector faced over 50 different taxes and levies across Federal, State and Local Government levels. These imposed severe burdens on operators and directly affected the quality of services delivered to consumers,” Adebayo said.

“The government’s new tax policy direction simplifies compliance, promotes equity, and creates a predictable environment. We commend this decisive effort”.

Adebayo added that 2026 will be a defining year for the telecom industry as the reforms take full effect, noting that the CMF will give operators the needed clarity on compliance expectations under the new fiscal framework.

The Forum, themed “Securing the Future: Navigating Compliance and Governance for Improved Quality of Service and Experience in Nigeria’s Digital Landscape,” will gather leading regulators and policymakers to address governance gaps affecting service quality.

Key attendees include: Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, who will deliver the keynote address on tax compliance and service quality.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, who will speak on building trust and service excellence through effective compliance.

Heads of FIRS, FCCPC, NDPC and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination.

The Forum will also serve as a platform for operators and regulators to strengthen accountability and enhance customer experience through transparent compliance practices.