The executive vice chairman (EVC) of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has emphasised the pivotal role of competition in fostering the healthy growth of the telecoms sector.
During a meeting with the management delegation of Airtel Networks Limited in Abuja, Maida underscored the commission’s commitment to managing competition effectively in the industry.
According to Maida, promoting competition and ensuring a level playing ground for all licensees are top priorities for the NCC. He stated, “We are more inclined to promote competition by creating a level-playing ground for all our licensees”. The EVC also highlighted the NCC’s comprehensive approach to examining all aspects of the competition issue within the sector.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the rising cost of business across sectors, Maida expressed the NCC’s intent to adopt a win-win regulatory approach while exercising caution against over-regulation. He emphasised the importance of avoiding over-regulation as it can be detrimental to healthy competition within the industry.
The NCC has recently undertaken a review of all license categories, both class and individual, to ensure that licensees can operate effectively within their capital and operating expenditure (COPEX), Maida added.
During the Airtel delegation’s visit, Maida stressed the necessity of developing win-win strategies and a regulatory framework to ensure the sustainability of the telecom industry. He highlighted the importance of aligning regulatory efforts with the goals outlined by the Minister and the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising the need for telcos to deliver value to customers.
The CEO of Airtel Networks Limited, Carl Cruz led the delegation and commended the NCC for its competition regulatory policies and frameworks. Cruz acknowledged the importance of sustaining such efforts to maintain a healthy competitive environment for telecom licensees.
