The Nigerian Communications Commission explains the proposed business regulations are intended to establish a level-playing field for all network operators, promote healthy competition, and expedite growth within the all-important telecoms industry in the country
Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect
As part of ongoing reforms in telecommunications, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has released a draft business framework to ensure telecoms industry sustainability.
ConsumerConnect reports the NCC said the fresh regulatory instrument was designed to prevent larger Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) from employing predatory pricing strategies, or operational delays to hinder smaller operators and virtual network providers within the sector.
The telecoms industry regulator also disclosed the draft Business Rules for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) would require feedbacks from network operators, and other stakeholders on the development.
The proposed business regulations are intended to establish a level-playing field for all network operators, promote healthy competition, and expedite growth within the telecoms industry.
It equally noted that the move is aimed at enhancing the telecommunications ecosystem in the West African country.
The Commission further said the draft business framework would foster fair competition, protect the interests of small players, and enhance operational standards within the telecoms environment.
Stakeholder Feedback: The NCC is actively seeking input from industry players, stakeholders, and interested entities on the proposed framework.
In accordance with the NCC stakeholder engagement process, the Commission urged industry participants, stakeholders, and interested entities to provide feedback on the draft rules by June 29, 2026.
Besides, the Commission has announced a public consultation forum scheduled for July 9 this year.
The forum, according to NCC, is being organised to take stakeholders’ inputs, and suggestions would be evaluated and integrated before the final implementation of the framework.
Key components of proposed regulatory framework
The Commission revealed the proposed framework encompasses stringent on-boarding timelines, equitable pricing models, revenue-sharing arrangements, and obligatory compliance requirements for telecoms operators.
The draft business rules indicated that host network operators must acknowledge receipt of MVNO connection requests within 10 days and provide feedback on technical readiness within 20 days.
The proposed regulations as well stipulated that all business and technical agreements between involved parties must be finalised within 120 days to avoid unnecessary delays.
Aside from these, the draft document is designed to promote equitable market participation.
The NCC also introduced benchmark pricing structures for data, voice calls, Short Messaging Service (SMS), and USSD services.
According to the Commission, this new-fangled pricing model is anticipated to prevent dominant operators from driving smaller virtual operators out of the market through anti-competitive pricing practices.
The proposed regulations have also established a tiered operational framework that distinctly outlines the scope, responsibilities, and operational boundaries of various categories of operators.
As regards other aspects of regulatory oversight, the NCC yet retains enforcement authority to intervene in industry operators’ disputes, handle complaints, and ensure established tariff guidelines are transparently implemented in the telecoms ecosystem