The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance consumer protection, promote fair competition and eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecommunications sector.
The signing ceremony took place yesterday at the FCCPC headquarters in Abuja. During the event, the executive vice-chairman and CEO of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing overlapping regulatory responsibilities.
Bello stated that the partnership would ensure that if one agency is unable to resolve a consumer issue, the other can step in to assist. He noted that this collaboration is rooted in Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) of 2018, which mandates cooperation between the FCCPC and other regulatory bodies.
By aligning their efforts, the FCCPC and NCC aim to eliminate duplicative processes, reduce consumer challenges when dealing with multiple agencies, and streamline regulatory oversight in the telecoms sector.
Bello highlighted the benefits of the MoU for both telecom operators and consumers, noting that the agreement introduces a one-stop-shop regulatory framework that fosters fair competition and addresses exploitative practices while ensuring robust consumer protection.
“This partnership reflects President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration, market efficiency and prioritising consumer welfare,” Bello added.
The executive vice-chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida described the MoU as a significant step towards safeguarding the interests of Nigerian consumers and fostering a transparent, competitive and consumer-focused telecom industry.
Maida emphasised that the MoU would streamline regulatory oversight, eliminate uncertainties and align efforts to create a level playing field for all stakeholders. He noted that this initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives, enhancing Nigeria’s regulatory landscape.
“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,” Maida stated.
He further pointed out that in an era of rapid technological advancements, the collaboration between regulatory bodies is essential. The telecommunications sector is particularly crucial for Nigeria’s economic and social development, making it imperative to ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders while protecting consumers who rely on reliable and affordable communication services.
Maida concluded by highlighting the importance of synergy in tackling challenges such as market abuses and consumer rights violations within the dynamic telecommunications sector. Through harmonizing their mandates, the FCCPC and NCC aim to ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and sustainable growth in the industry.
In recent years, telecom consumer complaints have become increasingly prevalent, particularly during an era of economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which has impacted the prices of goods and services in the country. In 2024, the NCC reported that issues such as data depletion and excessive billing continue to top the list of telecom consumer complaints amidst the ongoing socio-economic hardships in Nigeria.
