NCC partners FCCPC to boost telecom consumer protection

Joy Agwunobi

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at addressing regulatory gaps in the telecommunications industry.

The agreement seeks to streamline operations for telecom operators through a unified one-stop-shop approach, enhance consumer protection, promote fair competition, and eliminate exploitative practices within the sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, Tunji Bello, the executive vice chairman of the FCCPC, highlighted the significance of the collaboration. He noted that the partnership would ensure comprehensive consumer protection, foster fair competition, and eradicate exploitative practices in the telecommunications industry.

“This synergy is critical to providing thorough oversight and safeguarding consumer rights without duplicating regulatory efforts or creating conflicts. It also simplifies the process for consumers, who will no longer need to navigate multiple agencies for the same issues,” Bello said.

Bello further urged other sector regulators to emulate the collaboration, as mandated by Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA). He emphasised that coordinated frameworks like this would enhance consumer welfare across various sectors through streamlined regulatory oversight.

Also addressing the gathering, Aminu Maida, the executive vice chairman of the NCC, described the agreement as a product of constructive engagements between the two institutions. He stressed that the partnership reinforces their shared commitment to protecting consumers and promoting a transparent and competitive telecommunications industry.

Maida highlighted the telecommunications sector’s critical role as the backbone of Nigeria’s economic and social development. “This development underscores the need to create a level playing field for all stakeholders while ensuring consumers have access to reliable and affordable communication services,” he said.

He further explained that the partnership aligns with the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business initiative, adding that the MoU aims to eliminate regulatory uncertainties and establish clarity for all stakeholders in the sector.

“The challenges we face today ranging from market abuses and consumer rights violations to navigating the complexities of the digital economy require a united front and consistent policy implementation,” Maida stated.

Maida called on stakeholders to embrace the spirit of collaboration embodied by the MoU. He affirmed that by working together, the NCC and FCCPC are well-positioned to achieve their goals of fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.