The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on telecommunication consumer protection between the two regulatory agencies for increased telecom consumer protection.
Speaking at the event in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida described the occasion as one that has been long coming; as it 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.”
He added: “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.
“Also, the partnership 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.
Dr. Aminu further reiterated that this MoU is a testament to the 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.
He also acknowledged the hard work of the teams from both the NCC and FCCPC who worked tirelessly to bring the partnership to fruition and he commended the leadership of the FCCPC for their unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and promoting healthy competition across sectors.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Vice Chairman, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello stated that by design, regulations are often interwoven and overlapping, adding that principle behind overlapping regulations is simple: it serves as a mechanism to prevent issues from slipping through the cracks.
“This explains the interwoven relationship between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). It ensures that if one agency, due to certain limitations, fails to identify or address a consumer issue or regulatory violation, the other agency, potentially with a different perspective, will be able to step in effectively.
Mr. Bello added: “The signing of this MoU today symbolises the convergence of two diligent government agencies in compliance with legal requirements to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecoms industry.
The journey to this milestone has been both challenging and rewarding.
“I am pleased that with Dr. Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman 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 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.
He further stressed the importance of the partnership as being entirely consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration, enhanced market efficiency, and prioritising consumer welfare.
He concluded by stating that the event should inspire other sector regulators to establish similar collaborative frameworks with the FCCPC. This will ensure that consumers across all sectors enjoy the benefits of coordinated and comprehensive regulatory oversight.