NCC Announces Temporal Suspension Of Issuance Of Communications Licences

OpenLife Nigeria reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has issued a public notice to the effect that the Commission is suspending the issuance of communications licences in three categories.

The Commission stated, in a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs of the
Commission, that the suspension is in line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.

The power, according to Commission, is to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the Communications Industry.

However, at the moment, the Commission is informing all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on issuance of new licences in the following categories:

1. Interconnect Exchange Licence
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence
3. Value Added Service Aggregator Licence

This temporary suspension is necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within these categories, including the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.

The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.

Any enquiries or clarifications in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.