By Nkechi Eze
Safeguarding the rights of telecommunications users is necessary to ensure accountability and transparency. Regulations such as transparency laws and reporting requirements helps to ensure that telecommunications providers are transparent about their services, including pricing, data collection, and usage policies. This helps to build trust between telecommunications providers and their users and ensures that users are aware of their rights and responsibilities.
On the premise of this, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have strengthened their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja. This partnership aims to protect telecommunications consumers from exploitative practices, promote fair competition in the industry and ensure that users receive fair treatment, enjoy improved services, and have robust safeguards against exploitation.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both commissions highlights their commitment to addressing consumer complaints effectively, promoting healthy competition, and fostering trust in the rapidly growing telecom industry.
This landmark agreement between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has established a unified framework for tackling telecom-related issues. By signing this agreement, NCC Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Dr. Aminu Maida and FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Mr. Tunji Bello have paved the way for a more streamlined and efficient approach to addressing consumer complaints and promoting fair competition in the telecom sector.
In his remarks, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), highlighted the significance of collaboration in tackling the challenges brought about by rapid technological advancements. He stressed the need to prioritize consumer protection and ensure a fair and competitive environment for all stakeholders in the telecommunications industry, which plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economic and social growth.
According to Dr. Aminu, the MoU serves as a testament to the shared vision of the NCC and the FCCPC, which fosters a transparent, competitive and consumer focused telecommunications industry.
“By aligning our efforts, the NCC and FCCPC aim to avoid regulatory uncertainty and create clarity for the benefit of all stakeholders in the communications sector and in furtherance of their joint responsibility to ensure the realization of the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives.
Dr. Aminu further stated that the partnership also highlights the importance of synergy in regulatory oversight.
“The challenges we face today—whether they relate to market abuses, consumer rights violations, or the complexities of a digital economy—demand a united front and a consistent approach to policy implementation. This MoU will ensure that our respective mandates are harmonized to achieve maximum impact”
While commending the leadership of the FCCPC, he stated that the FCCPC’ dedication compliments that of the NCC and expressed confidence that the collaboration will yield significant benefits for the citizens.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello in his response, described the signing of the MoU as a symbol of the convergence of two diligent government agencies, in compliance with legal requirements to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecommunications industry.
“The journey to this milestone has been both challenging and rewarding. I am pleased that with Dr Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, we have successfully achieved this milestone.
“Guided by our shared vision, this partnership will benefit both operators and consumers. It will foster harmonious collaboration between our organizations, streamline operations for telecoms operators through a one-stop-shop approach in many instances, and ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices” he said.
Speaking further, he stated that “given the importance of this legal requirement, today’s event should inspire other sector regulators to establish similar collaborative frameworks with the FCCPC, as mandated by Section 105 of the FCCPA. This will ensure that consumers across all sectors enjoy the benefits of coordinated and comprehensive regulatory oversight.
He emphasized the importance of stakeholders embracing the collaborative spirit of the partnership, as it has the potential to drive innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in the telecom sector. By working together, Nigeria can take a vital step towards building a resilient and consumer-centric digital economy, ultimately shaping a brighter future for the country.
