The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today began a 2-day public inquiry into three regulatory instruments (also known as subsidiary regulations).aimed at shaping the communications sector.
The regulations which focused on telecommunications networks interconnect, guidelines for disconnecting operators, and dispute resolution.
Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Acting Head of Legal and Regulatory Services of the Nigerian Communications Commission, who represented EVC of NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, declared open the Public Inquiry on three regulatory instruments which will hold from May 21st to 22nd, 2024, at the Conference Hall, NCC Headquarters, Abuja.
In his speech , NCC EVC , 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 under review aim to address emerging challenges, trends, and opportunities in the sector, including technological advancements, competition, and consumer protection. The inquiry provides a platform for industry stakeholders to contribute to the refinement of these regulations, ensuring they remain effective and relevant in the rapidly evolving digital age.
The NCC’s collaborative approach to regulation is crucial in driving the growth and development of the communications sector, and the Commission looks forward to shaping a strong and dynamic industry together with stakeholders.
Dr Aminu Maida said “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.
“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 the course of this public inquiry are vital in ensuring the communications sector meets the demand of the ever-evolving digital age.
“The first Regulatory instrument in 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 communicationd 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 is the main instances where disconnection of operators becomes necessary this 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.
“As disputes arise, we must evaluate and improve these guidelines to ensure they remain effective in resolving conflicts and promoting a stable telecommunications ecosystem”.
At the event,NCC admonished the participants that their various inputs will be invaluable in shaping the future of our telecommunications sector.
NCC further stated “Together we can create an environment that inspires innovation, encourages fair competition and ultimately serves the best interest of all stakeholders”.
