The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Dr Aminu Maida has highlighted the need for greater inter-agency collaboration as a means of achieving the goals of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and beyond.
Speaking at the formal execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Dr. Mauda said
“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 explained that the event which he considers long overdue 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.
He further maintained that in an era of rapid technological advancements, the significance of collaboration between regulatory bodies cannot be overstated particularly as the telecommunications sector 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.
This MoU is a testament to our 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 added
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. This MoU will ensure that our respective mandates are harmonized to achieve maximum impact.
Maida commended the leadership of the FCCPC for its unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and promoting healthy competition across sectors and expressed confidence that the collaboration will yield significant benefits for the Nigerian people.
He acknowledge that the hard work of the teams from both the NCC and FCCPC, who worked tirelessly to bring the partnership to fruition.
“Your diligence has laid the groundwork for a collaboration that will not only address present challenges but also anticipate the needs of tomorrow.”
Maida also congratulated everyone involved in making the historic partnership a reality, while expressing hope that the great strides made through this collaborative move will ensure fair competition and consumer satisfaction in the years to come.
Meanwhile, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, in his opening remarks said collaboration by both agencies will make life easier for the generality of consumers in dealing with two government agencies on the same issue at the same time.
He maintained that the signing of the MoU symbolises a convergence of two diligent government agencies in compliance with legal requirements to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecoms industry.
Commending Dr Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, for the success of the milestone achievement, Mr. Bello noted that the shared vision of the partnership arrangement will benefit both operators and consumers, foster harmonious collaboration as well as 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,
According to him, the move is consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration, enhanced market efficiency, and prioritising of consumer welfare.