The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will enhance consumer protection, promote fair competition, and eliminate exploitative practices in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday, introduces a one-stop-shop approach for telecom operators, streamlining operations and fostering a more collaborative regulatory environment.
It is designed to benefit both telecom operators and consumers, ensuring smoother interactions between the two agencies and a more efficient regulatory framework.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the Commission by Mr. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the FCCPC, and on behalf of the telecoms regulator by Dr. Aminu Maida, the EVC and Chief Executive of the NCC.
During the event, Bello stated that the agreement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of promoting economic growth through improved market efficiency, regulatory cooperation, and prioritising consumer welfare.
He explained that the synergy is essential to guaranteeing thorough oversight and consumer protection free from regulatory duplications or conflicts.
Bello claimed that by partnering with the FCCPC, the NCC would make it easier for the general public to deal with two government agencies on the same issue at the same time.
He added that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding represents the coming together of two conscientious government agencies in accordance with the law to close regulatory gaps in the telecom sector.
He said, “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 telecom operators through a one-stop-shop approach in many instances, and ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices.
“This is entirely consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration, enhanced market efficiency, and prioritizing consumer welfare.
“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.”
Maida, NCC boss, stated in his remarks at the event that the agreement is the outcome of healthy engagements and events that have strengthened the resolve of both institutions to protect the Nigerian consumer, especially in the communications industry.
“Today, we celebrate the beginning of a strategic partnership between two critical regulatory institutions, each committed to advancing the welfare of the Nigerian people through fair competition and robust consumer protection frameworks.
“In an era of rapid technological advancements, the significance of collaboration between regulatory bodies cannot be overstated.
“The telecommunications sector, in particular, has become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic and social development.
“This makes it imperative that we ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders while protecting consumers who depend on reliable and affordable communications services,” he added.
Maida described the MoU as a testament to the shared vision of fostering a transparent, competitive, and consumer-focused telecommunications industry.
