The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, has been selected alongside other notable Nigerians to be conferred with the esteemed National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award.
The conferment announcement was made in an advertorial signed by the Director General of the National Productivity Centre, Dr. Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha, heralding Danbatta’s exceptional achievements and significant contributions to the development and advancement of the Nigerian telecommunications industry.
Digital TimesNG recalls that the NPOM Award recognises individuals, who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields, and Danbatta’s recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to the NCC and the telecommunications sector as a whole.
Danbatta’s tenure at the NCC has witnessed the implementation of several initiatives that have revolutionized the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria, his visionary leadership and strategic decisions have also led to remarkable achievements and noteworthy milestones for the industry.
Some of the key accomplishments attributed to Danbatta’s tenure include the promotion of broadband penetration, consumer empowerment and protection, sustainable industry growth, and digital inclusion and innovation, among others.
Under the promotion of broadband penetration, Danbatta’s relentless efforts to enhance broadband connectivity across Nigeria have resulted in substantial improvements in internet access and affordability, with this playing a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.
In the area of consumer empowerment and protection, Danbatta has prioritized the interests and rights of telecom consumers, implementing consumer-centric policies and initiatives. For instance, the NCC’s Toll-Free Line for Consumer Complaints, introduced under his leadership, has provided an accessible platform for addressing consumer grievances and ensuring their protection.
With respect to sustainable industry growth, under Prof. Danbatta’s guidance, the telecommunications sector has witnessed significant investments and healthy competition. His strategic leadership has fueled innovation, resulting in sustainable industry growth and a positive impact on Nigeria’s economy.
Also, recognizing the transformative power of digital technology, Danbatta has championed programmes to promote digital inclusion and empower marginalized communities in his efforts to deepen digital inclusion and innovation.
Initiatives such as the NCC’s Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC), formerly known as the School Knowledge Centres (SKCs) and Emergency Communication Centres (ECCs) have improved access to digital resources and enhanced emergency response capabilities across the nation.
The conferment of the 2023 NPOM Award on Danbatta serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and exceptional leadership within the NCC. His contributions have not only positioned Nigeria as a key player in the global digital landscape but have also positively impacted the lives of millions of Nigerians.
The NPOM Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to productivity, innovation, and national development.
Analysts say Danbatta’s well-deserved recognition further solidifies his reputation as a transformative leader and industry trailblazer.
Meanwhile, the entire telecommunications industry and the nation, at large, celebrate Danbatta’s achievements and extend their heartfelt congratulations on the conferment of the 2023 NPOM Award.
The industry sees his exemplary leadership and contributions to the growth of the industry as an inspiration to future generations and reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to technological progress and national productivity.
