The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed a temporary suspension of issuance of new licenses in three categories in the communications industry.
The affected three categories included Interconnect Exchange Licence; Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence and Value Added Service Aggregator Licence.
This was contained in a public notice signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs Rueben Muoka, dated 17 May, 2024.
Informing all stakeholders of the temporary suspension, the telecoms regulatory agency, stated that it was exercising its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.
The Act 2023 was to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the communications industry.
The Commission informed the public to note that during the suspension period, commencing from today (17 May, 2024), new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted.
It however assured that the temporary suspension was not without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.
It stated that the temporary suspension of issuance of new licenses became necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within the affected categories.
It further stated the key areas affected in the three categories included the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.
“The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted.
“This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.
“Any enquiries or clarifications in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.,” it was stated in the public notice.
