Abuja, May 22, 2024 – Dr Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says the public inquiry being conducted by the NCC is to promote transparency and inclusivity in the sector.
Maida said this at the opening of the two-day public inquiry in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said the NCC had always been committed to promoting an efficient, accessible and competitive telecom industry.
The NCC boss said the public inquiry was a testament to company’s dedication to ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered.
Maida said the public inquiry would consider regulatory instruments of the Commission to help shape the future of the telecommunication industry.
He also said the review of these instruments was crucial to keep pace with technological advancement, foster competition, protect consumer interest, align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry.
“These regulatory instruments play a vital role in shaping our communications landscape and we must visit and refine them to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities.
“The instruments 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 communication 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 transparently and accountable.
“Lastly, we will review the guidelines for is Guidelines for Dispute Resolution. Disputes are an inevitable part of any industry. 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.
“As disputes arise, we must evaluate and improve these guidelines to ensure they remain effective in resolving conflicts and promoting a stable telecommunications ecosystem.”
Mrs Chizu Whyte, the NCC Acting Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, said Nigeria’s regulatory instruments must adapt swiftly to the global communications industry as it evolves with emerging technologies.
She said the Commission’s collaborations with stakeholders had driven significant advancements and would continue to propel the sector forward.
“This public Inquiry underscores our commitment to regulatory excellence and to building a robust communications sector that supports the Nigerian economy.
“We value your contributions and look forward to shaping a strong, dynamic industry together.”
While reviewing the three key regulatory instruments, Mrs Whyte said: “The first is the Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations.
“The proposed amendments aim to enhance compliance, provide a comprehensive interconnection framework, and improve monitoring systems.
“Interconnection fosters service delivery and market cohesion, ensuring operators have fair and non-discriminatory access.
“The second is the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators.
“This framework ensures fairness, transparency, and certainty in disconnection procedures, protecting operators from unjustified disconnections and ensuring contractual obligations are honoured.
“This review will bolster investor confidence and promote healthy competition.
“The third is the Guidelines for Dispute Resolution. In line with section 73 of the act, effective dispute resolution is essential for resolving issues efficiently and fairly.
“The updated guidelines aim to streamline the process, save time, reduce costs, and minimize service disruptions, particularly for small claims.
“This will enhance stakeholder confidence in the resolution process,” White said. (GBN)
