Nigeria’s regulator of the telecoms industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has suspended issuance of licences in three categories of the sector.
The affected categories are interconnect exchange, mobile virtual network operator and value added service aggregator. Consequently, further applications into the categories will not be accepted by the commission until the suspension is lifted.
According to a statement on Friday signed by Reuben Muoka, its Director of Public Affair, NCC said the move was taken in the interest of the sector.
The statement read: “In line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the Communications Industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (the Commission) hereby informs all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on issuance of new licences in the following categories: Interconnect Exchange Licence; Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence; and Value Added Service Aggregator Licence.”
“This temporary suspension is necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within these categories, including the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.
“The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.
“Any enquiries or clarifications in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.”
