- Suspends issuance of virtual operators licence
- The NCC said the suspension is in line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to grant, renew licenses and promote fair competition.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a temporary suspension of new licence issuance to operators in three categories, effective May 17, 2024.
The affected categories are:
1. Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence
2. Interconnect Exchange Licence
3. Value Added Service Aggregator Licence
The suspension is aimed at enabling a thorough review of market saturation, competition levels, and current market dynamics in these categories.
The NCC exercised its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to promote fair competition and develop the communications industry.
LICENCE CATEGORIES
- Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence: Allows companies to sell mobile services under their brand name using a licensed mobile operator’s network.
- Interconnect Exchange Licence: Enables the interconnection of independent entities to facilitate electronic communications transfer.
- Value Added Service Aggregator Licence: Covers non-core network telecommunication services beyond standard voice calls, including internet, directory services, and content services.
IMPACT
- New applications for the affected licences will not be accepted during the suspension period.
- Pending applications will be considered on their merit.
- Enquiries and clarifications can be directed to licensing@ncc.gov.ng.
The commission, in a public notice posted on its X handle on Friday, said the temporary suspension is to enable a thorough review of several key areas of market saturation, competition level and current market dynamics.
The notice titled, “Temporary Suspension Of The Issuance Of Communications Licences In Three Categories” was signed by the Director, Public Affairs Department, Nigerian Communications Commission, Reuben Muoka.
The notice read, “In line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to grant and renew licenses, promote fair competition and develop the Communications Industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (The Commissions) hereby informs all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on issuance of new licenses in the following categories, Interconnect Exchange License, Mobile Virtual Network Operator License and Value Added Service Aggregator License.
“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.”
It, however, noted that the new directive doesn’t affect pending applications which would be considered based on merit.
“The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new applications for the aforementioned licenses will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on its merits.
“Any enquiries of clarification in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng,” the statement read.
In recent times, the telecommunications sector has been faced with a myriad of issues raising concerns about sustainability and efficient service delivery amid ongoing economic challenges.
Record high inflation has reduced purchasing power and a currency devaluation has cut margins.
These challenges are exacerbated by the issue of multiple taxation and regulations and prohibitive right-of-way charges, inadequate electric power supply, and vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure.