Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida, has said regulatory instruments are vital to shaping the communications landscape.
He also said it was necessary essential to visit and refine the regulatory instruments to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities.
Maida stated these in his opening remarks at a two-day public inquiry on three regulatory instruments held at the NCC Headquarters on 21-22 May, 2024.
He made it known that NCC, as the independent regulatory authority for the communications industry in Nigeria, has remained committed to promoting an efficient, accessible and competitive telecom industry.
Speaking on the importance of the public inquiry, Maida said it was a testament to the dedication of the NCC to transparency and inclusivity to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered.
“These regulatory instruments play a vital role in shaping our communications landscape and it is essential that we visit and refine them to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities.
“The instruments that we considered during the course of this public inquiry are vital in ensuring the communications sector meets the demand of the ever-evolving digital age.
“The first regulatory instrument in our agenda today is Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations.
“As we all know, interconnection plays a vital role in enabling seamless communication between two different networks, and facilitating the growth of the communication industry in Nigeria.
“This review is crucial to keep pace with technological advancement, foster competition, protect consumer interest, align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry,” he said.
The NCC EVC/CEO also disclosed that the second instrument to be reviewed at the public inquiry was Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators.
“As the industry continues to evolve is the main instances where disconnection of operators becomes necessary this guidelines lay out the procedural framework through which such approvals are granted, ensuring that they are carried out in a transparent and accountable manner,” he added.
Also reviewed at the public inquiry was Guidelines for Dispute Resolution, as Maida said: “Disputes are an inevitable part of any industry.
“In fact, it is indisputable in any transaction and having a robust framework to resolve them is crucial, and these guidelines aim to provide a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the communications sector, promoting timely resolutions and ensuring that stakeholders are treated fairly.
“As disputes arise, we must evaluate and improve these guidelines to ensure they remain effective in resolving conflicts and promoting a stable telecommunications ecosystem,” the NCC EVC/CEO said.
He challenged participants at the public inquiry to engage in meaningful and constructive discussions that will reflect the current needs and challenges of the Nigerian communications industry.
He said their inputs will be invaluable in shaping the future of the telecommunications sector and, together, create an innovative and fair environment that can serve the best interest of all stakeholders.
In her welcome address, NCC acting Head, Legal and Regulator Services, Mrs Chizua Whyte, described the public inquiry as a vital part of the Commission’s mandate to create a dynamic communications sector.
“The Nigerian Communications Act 2003 empowers us to develop and amend regulatory instruments, and your input today is crucial in refining these regulations to address the sector’s evolving challenges.
She also spoke on the three key regulatory instruments to be reviewed namely, the Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations; Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators and the Guidelines for Dispute Resolution.
“The proposed amendments aim to enhance compliance, provide a comprehensive interconnection framework, and improve monitoring systems.
She said interconnection fosters service delivery and market cohesion, ensuring operators have fair and non- discriminatory access.
Mrs Whyte said second regulatory instrument is a framework that ensures fairness, transparency, and certainty in disconnection procedures, protecting operators from unjustified disconnections and ensuring contractual obligations are honoured.
“This review will bolster investor confidence and promote healthy competition,” she added.
On the third regulatory instrument, she said: “In line with section 73 of the act, effective dispute resolution is essential for resolving issues efficiently and fairly.
“The updated guidelines aim to streamline the process, save time, reduce costs, and minimise service disruptions, particularly for small claims. This will enhance stakeholder confidence in the resolution process.
“As the communications industry evolves with emerging technologies, our regulatory instruments must adapt swiftly.
“The Commission’s collaborative efforts with stakeholders have driven significant advancements and will continue to propel the sector forward,” she added.
Mrs Whyte also said the public inquiry underscored the commitment of the NCC to regulatory excellence and to building a robust communications sector that supports the Nigerian economy.
