The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has announced a temporary suspension on the issuance of new licenses in three specific categories.
This decision was disclosed on Friday via a statement on the commission’s X handle, signed by Reuben Muoka, the Director of the Public Affairs Department at the NCC.
The categories affected by this suspension are the Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence, Interconnect Exchange Licence, and Value Added Service Aggregator Licence.
According to the NCC, this move is in line with its authority under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which empowers the commission to grant and renew licenses and promote fair competition within the industry.
The commission explained that the suspension aims to facilitate a comprehensive review of several critical aspects, including market saturation, the level of competition, and current market dynamics.
The NCC emphasized that this measure is temporary and is intended to ensure the ongoing development and fairness of the communications industry.
Importantly, the commission clarified that the new directive does not impact pending applications, which will be evaluated based on their merits.
The statement, titled “Temporary Suspension Of The Issuance Of Communications Licences In Three Categories,” reads:
“In line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to grant and renew licenses, promote fair competition and develop the Communications Industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (The Commission) hereby informs all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on the issuance of new licenses in the following categories: Interconnect Exchange License, Mobile Virtual Network Operator License, and Value Added Service Aggregator License.
“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 applications for the aforementioned licenses will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission, which will be considered on their merits.
“Any enquiries or clarification in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.”
