Mon. Feb 17th, 2025
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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance regulatory collaboration and improve consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, described the event as “long coming” and the product of “healthy engagements” aimed at safeguarding Nigerian consumers. He noted that the MoU symbolizes a strategic partnership to foster “a transparent, competitive, and consumer-focused telecommunications industry.”

Dr. Maida emphasized the increasing importance of collaboration in an era of rapid technological advancements. “The telecommunications sector has become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic and social development. This makes it imperative to ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders while protecting consumers who depend on reliable and affordable communications services,” he stated.

On his part, Dr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman of FCCPC, highlighted the significance of regulatory synergy in addressing consumer issues effectively. “Regulations are often interwoven and overlapping, serving as a mechanism to prevent issues from slipping through the cracks,” he said. He praised Section 105 of the FCCPA 2018 for explicitly mandating cooperation between sector regulators like the FCCPC and the NCC.

Dr. Bello explained that the MoU will eliminate regulatory gaps and enhance efficiency for telecom operators and consumers. “This partnership ensures robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices while streamlining operations for telecom operators,” he noted, adding that it reflects President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration.

Both leaders acknowledged the challenges faced in reaching this milestone, commending the dedication of their teams. “Your diligence has laid the groundwork for a collaboration that addresses present challenges and anticipates future needs,” Dr. Maida remarked.

The MoU also reflects a “one-stop-shop approach,” according to Dr. Bello, making it easier for consumers to interact with both agencies without facing regulatory duplications. “This will make life easier for the generality of consumers in dealing with two government agencies on the same issue at the same time,” he added.

Dr. Maida expressed optimism about the partnership’s impact on consumer satisfaction and market fairness. He called on stakeholders to embrace the spirit of collaboration, saying, “Together, we can achieve the goals of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and beyond.”

Dr. Bello encouraged other regulatory agencies to emulate the collaborative framework outlined in the FCCPA, emphasizing its importance in ensuring comprehensive oversight. “This partnership should inspire similar MoUs in other sectors, ensuring consumers enjoy coordinated and efficient regulatory oversight,” he said.

The signing ceremony marked the beginning of a unified regulatory effort aimed at achieving fair competition, safeguarding consumer rights, and promoting economic growth in Nigeria’s evolving digital economy. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the collaboration yields tangible benefits for all stakeholders.

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