The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection (FCCPC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at protecting the telecoms consumers in Nigeria.
The pact was signed by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida and the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking during the agreement signing ceremony, the NCC boss said, the strategic partnership has strengthened the both institutions to protect the Nigerian consumer, especially in the communications industry.
He said “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.
“This MoU is a testament to our shared vision of fostering a transparent, competitive, and consumer-focused telecommunications industry. By aligning our efforts, the NCC and FCCPC aim to avoid regulatory uncertainty and create clarity for the benefit of all stakeholders in the communications sector and in furtherance of their joint responsibility to ensure the realization of the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives.
“Our partnership also highlights the importance of synergy in regulatory oversight. The challenges we face today—whether they relate to market abuses, consumer rights violations, or the complexities of a digital economy—demand a united front and a consistent approach to policy implementation. This MoU will ensure that our respective mandates are harmonized to achieve maximum impact,” he said.
While commending the leadership of the FCCPC for their unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and promoting healthy competition across sector, Dr. Maida expressed confidence that the collaboration would yield significant benefits for the Nigerian people.
Also speaking, the FCCPC boss, Mr. Bello said the signing of the MoU symbolises the convergence of two diligent government agencies in compliance with legal requirements to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecoms industry, assuring that the partnership will benefit both operators and consumers.
“It will foster harmonious collaboration between our organisations, streamline operations for telecoms operators through a one-stop-shop approach in many instances, and ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices,” he said.
