The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun a public enquiry on the review of three key guidelines/regulatory instruments for the telecoms industry.
The Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said this on Tuesday while meeting with all Mobile Networks Operators (MNOs) and other stakeholders in the telecoms industry in Abuja.
Maida said the review of the guidelines aimed at providing a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the telecoms sector, adding that it would promote timely resolution and ensuring that all stakeholders are treated fairly.
According to him, it will also shape the future of the industry in line with contemporary challenges of digital age.
He said the guidelines for procedures of granting approval to disconnect telecoms operators and the guidelines for dispute resolution in the industry were being reviewed as telecoms networks interconnection regulations.
The EVC, who described the guidelines as vital to the growth and development of the telecoms industry ecosystem, said the commission held a public enquiry to ensuring transparency and accountability.
“The NCC is an independent regulatory authority for the communications industry in Nigeria, we are committed towards accessible and competitive telecoms industry.
“The public enquiry we are conducting today is a testament to the commitment and dedication to transparency and inclusivity towards ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered”, Maida said.
“These regulatory instruments have played a vital role in driving our telecommunications landscape and it is essential that we revisit and revise them to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities in the industry.”
He said guidelines being considered were vital to ensuring that the communications sector meets the demands of the digital age.
He added that the contributions of all stakeholders would shape the future of the industry and make the telecoms sector more innovative and competitive.
The EVC said the telecoms networks interconnection regulation played significant role in seamless communications between two different network and facilitating the growth of the telecom industry in Nigeria.
“This review is crucial to keep pace with technological advancements, foster competition, protect consumers’ interest and align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry.
“The second is the guidelines for procedures of granting approvals to disconnect telecoms operators.
“As the industry continues to evolve there may be instances where the disconnection of operators becomes necessary.
“These guidelines are procedural framework through which such approval are granted to ensure that they are carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.
“Lastly, we will be reviewing the guidelines for disputes resolution. Disputes are inevitable part of any industry, There should be a robust framework for disputes resolution.
“The guidelines aim to provide a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the telecoms sector, promote timely resolution and ensuring that all stakeholders are treated fairly.
“As this needs arise we must evaluate and review the guidelines to ensure they are effective in resolving conflicts and promoting a stable telecoms ecosystem,” Dr Maida asserted.