The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited due to unpaid interconnect charges.
In a notice signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, NCC disclosed that Exchange had failed to settle its interconnect debts owed to MTN despite being given multiple opportunities to resolve the issue. After a thorough review, the Commission found Exchange’s reasons for non-payment to be unjustifiable, prompting the approval of the disconnection.
The disconnection, which will take effect five days from December 27, 2024, will result in MTN ceasing to route voice and data traffic through Exchange. MTN will use alternative channels to interconnect with other service providers while the disconnection remain in effect, pending further directives from the Commission.
The NCC assured that due process was followed, noted that Exchange Telecommunications was duly notified of the situation and allowed to present its case, which failed to provide sufficient grounds to avert the disconnection.
Subscribers using Exchange Telecommunications to access MTN’s network may face disruptions due to the disconnection. The Commission has urged all affected parties to take note and make necessary adjustments.
Reaffirming its role as the regulator of the telecommunications sector, the NCC emphasized its commitment to ensuring compliance with industry standards and protecting the interests of all stakeholders.
