The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), once seen as a strong regulator in Africa’s telecoms space, is now battling a wave of scandals that insiders say threaten its credibility and the stability of Nigeria’s telecoms industry. At the centre of the storm is the Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida, whose leadership has come under fire from staff, industry observers, and political watchers.
Sources accuse Maida of everything from nepotism and recruitment fraud to sidelining staff welfare and using the commission’s resources for political manoeuvring. One case that sparked outrage was the attempted suicide of a staff member in August, linked to crushing debt and poor staff support within the agency. Insiders say this reflects the low morale and desperation spreading among workers.
Beyond welfare, Maida is accused of holding secret meetings with northern elites abroad and funnelling NCC resources to opposition politicians. His alleged frosty relationship with Communications Minister Bosun Tijani has only fuelled suspicion of deeper political undercurrents. Staff also claim promotions and appointments were manipulated, with exam papers leaked to favoured candidates and positions given to relatives of top politicians without due process.
The allegations run deep: misuse of funds, illegal sale of commission assets, overseas trips disguised as official business, and targeting whistleblowers instead of fixing internal problems. Over 30 staff members have reportedly resigned since his appointment, while those who remain describe a climate of fear, intimidation, and punishment for dissent.
Observers warn that if left unchecked, the crisis could destabilise Nigeria’s telecoms sector at a time when reliable connectivity is crucial to the economy. Calls are now growing for urgent intervention from the Presidency, National Assembly, and anti-graft agencies to prevent what some describe as “a national threat to the telecom industry.” For now, NCC remains silent, leaving more questions than answers.
