By George Ozalla
The Senate Committee on Communications yesterday screened Mr. Idris Olorunnimbe, President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for the position of Chairman, Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), alongside other board nominees.
The screening, which took place at the National Assembly complex, witnessed the presence of key stakeholders in the telecommunications sector and members of the committee who took turns to question the nominee on his plans for the nation’s communications landscape.
Olorunnimbe, while addressing the lawmakers, pledged to align the vision of the NCC under his prospective leadership with the objectives of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in expanding broadband penetration, promoting local content, and ensuring consumer protection. He said the nation’s telecommunications industry had reached a critical phase that demanded innovation, inclusivity, and sound regulatory foresight to sustain growth.
According to him, his focus would be on enhancing digital access for underserved communities, improving internet affordability, and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a hub for digital investment in Africa. “We must push for an inclusive digital economy that benefits every Nigerian,” he said, assuring that he would work closely with operators, innovators, and policymakers to achieve these goals.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications, in his remarks, described the NCC as a strategic institution whose leadership requires vision and integrity, urging the nominee to demonstrate strong commitment to national interest and transparency if confirmed.
Mr. Idris Olorunnimbe is a lawyer, entrepreneur, and creative industry professional. He is the founder and chief executive of The Temple Company, a leading entertainment and media agency in Nigeria, and has served on several boards and advisory platforms related to youth empowerment and digital innovation. Before his nomination, Olorunnimbe had gained wide experience in corporate management, policy strategy, and creative economy development, with a record of fostering partnerships across public and private sectors.
The Senate is expected to deliberate on the committee’s report and take a final decision on his confirmation in the coming days.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) serves as the country’s principal regulatory authority for the telecommunications industry, responsible for licensing, spectrum allocation, consumer protection, and fostering competition among service providers. Established by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, the Commission remains pivotal to the government’s digital transformation drive and the attainment of universal access goals.
