The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration and ensure robust consumer protection and fair competition in the telecommunications sector.
The agreement, signed at a ceremony in Abuja, marks a significant step towards aligning regulatory efforts between the two agencies. Both institutions emphasized the importance of synergy in tackling overlapping regulatory issues and safeguarding consumer rights, particularly in an era of rapid technological advancements.
Speaking at the event, the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, described the partnership as a milestone in advancing consumer welfare and fostering a competitive telecommunications industry.
“This MoU is a testament to our shared vision of creating a transparent, consumer-focused industry while ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders. By working together, we aim to address market abuses, protect consumer rights, and support the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives.
“As we execute this MoU today, I call on all stakeholders to embrace the spirit of collaboration that this partnership represents. Together, we can achieve the goals of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and beyond,” Maida stated.
Echoing similar sentiments, FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Tunji Bello, noted that the MoU’s significance in bridging regulatory gaps. He noted that the collaboration aligns with Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which mandates cooperation between sector regulators. “This partnership ensures streamlined operations for telecom operators and robust protection for consumers, embodying President Bola Tinubu’s vision for economic growth through regulatory collaboration and efficiency,” Bello remarked.
The leaders of both agencies commended their teams for their dedication to making this partnership a reality and called on stakeholders to embrace the spirit of collaboration the MoU represents. The agreement is expected to not only address current challenges but also anticipate future needs in Nigeria’s evolving telecommunications landscape.
This initiative signals a new era of regulatory oversight designed to promote innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability while placing consumers at the forefront of policy implementation.
