The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a public enquiry into three of its regulatory instruments, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and inclusivity. This initiative aims to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, made this announcement on Tuesday during the ongoing two-day public enquiry in Abuja.
Dr. Maida explained that the planned review of the guidelines seeks to provide a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the telecom sector, promote timely resolutions, and ensure fair treatment for all stakeholders. He emphasized that the instruments under consideration are crucial for the communications sector to meet the demands of the digital age.
The three regulatory instruments under review include: the telecoms regulatory instrument, the guidelines for procedures for granting approvals to disconnect telecom operators, and the guidelines for dispute resolution. Dr. Maida highlighted that disputes are an inevitable part of any industry, underscoring the necessity of a robust framework for dispute resolution.
“The instrument being considered in the course of this enquiry are vital to ensuring that the communications sector meets the demands of the ever able digital age.
“The first regulatory instrument in the agenda is the telecoms networks interconnection regulation. As we all know the interconnection play a vital role in seamless communications between two different network and facilitating the growth of the telecom industry in Nigeria. This review is crucial to keep pace with technological advancements foster competition, protect consumers interest and align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry.
“The 2nd is the guidelines for procedures for granting approvals to disconnect telecoms operators. As the industry continues to evolve there may be instances where the disconnection of operators becomes necessary. These guidelines are procedural framework through which through which such approval are granted to ensure that they are carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.
“We will also be reviewing the guidelines for disputes resolution. Disputes are inevitable part of any industry. There should be a robust framework for disputes resolution,” said Maida.
According to Dr. Maida, the guidelines are designed to offer a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the telecom sector, promote timely resolutions, and ensure fair treatment for all stakeholders. He emphasized that, as new needs arise, it is essential to evaluate and review these guidelines to ensure their effectiveness in resolving conflicts and maintaining a stable telecom ecosystem.
