To reshape the communications industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a two-day public investigation of three subsidiary rules. Disconnecting operators, resolving disputes, and interconnecting telecommunications networks are the main topics of the legislation.
The Nigerian Communications Commission’s Acting Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, officially opened the public inquiry on three regulatory instruments. The inquiry will take place in the Conference Hall of the NCC Headquarters in Abuja from May 21 to 22, 2024, and is being held in place of Dr. Aminu Maida, the EVC of the NCC.
Speaking at the event, NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, emphasized the importance of stakeholder input in ensuring inclusivity and transparency in the development of regulatory instruments. He noted that the public inquiry is a testament to the Commission’s commitment to promoting an efficient, accessible, and competitive telecom industry.
The regulations that are now being reviewed seek to address new possibilities, trends, and concerns in the industry, such as consumer protection, competition, and technological improvements. The investigation offers a forum for business stakeholders to improve these rules and make sure they continue to be applicable in the quickly changing digital era.
The growth and development of the communications sector are greatly aided by the NCC’s cooperative approach to regulation, and the Commission is eager to work with stakeholders to create a robust and dynamic industry.
According to the EVC of NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, “The Nigerian Communications Commission, as the independent regulatory authority for the communications industry in Nigeria, has always been committed to promoting an efficient, accessible and competitive telecom industry. The public inquiry we are conducting today is a testament to the Commission’s dedication to transparency and inclusivity ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered.
He said, “These regulatory instruments play a vital role in shaping our communications landscape and it is essential that we visit and refine them to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities. The instruments that we considered during this public inquiry are vital in ensuring the communications sector meets the demands of the ever-evolving digital age.
“The first Regulatory instrument on our agenda today is Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations. As we all know, interconnection plays a vital role in enabling seamless communication between two different networks and facilitating the growth of the communications industry in Nigeria. This review is crucial to keep pace with technological advancement, foster competition, protect consumer interest, align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry.
“The second instrument to be reviewed is Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators. As the industry continues to evolve the main instances where disconnection of operators becomes necessary these guidelines lay out the procedural framework through which such approvals are granted, ensuring that they are carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.
“Lastly, we will be reviewing the guidelines for is Guidelines for Dispute Resolution. Disputes are an inevitable part of any industry. In fact, it is indisputable in any transaction and having a robust framework to resolve them is crucial, and these guidelines aim to provide a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the communications sector promoting timely resolutions and ensuring that stakeholders are treated fairly.
The attendees had insightful and fruitful conversations that will help to illustrate the demands and difficulties facing Nigeria’s communications sector today. The NCC also reminded the attendees that their varied contributions will be crucial in determining how our telecom industry develops in the future. By working together, we can establish an atmosphere that promotes fair competition, fosters innovation, and ultimately serves the interests of all parties involved.
