The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have initiated a move to enhance consumer protection, promote fair competition and eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecommunications sector.
Speaking during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) held at the FCCPC headquarters in Abuja, on Tuesday, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing overlapping regulatory responsibilities.
Bello said the partnership would ensure that if one agency is unable to address a consumer issue, the other steps in.
He noted that the collaboration was rooted in Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which mandates cooperation between the FCCPC and regulators.
He said by aligning their efforts, the FCCPC and NCC aimed to eliminate duplicative processes, reduce consumer challenges in dealing with multiple agencies and streamline regulatory oversight in the telecoms sector.
He highlighted the benefits of the MoU for telecom operators and consumers alike, noting that the agreement introduces a one-stop-shop regulatory framework, fostering fair competition and addressing 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 prioritizing consumer welfare,” Bello added.
On his part, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, hailed the MoU as a pivotal step towards safeguarding the interests of Nigerian consumers and fostering a transparent, competitive and consumer-focused telecom industry.
Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Maida emphasised that the MoU would streamline regulatory oversight, eliminate uncertainties and align efforts to create a level playing field for all stakeholders.
He said this initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives, enhancing Nigeria’s regulatory landscape.
Maida added that the partnership underscores the importance of synergy in tackling challenges such as market abuses, consumer rights violations, and the dynamic nature of the telecommunications sector.
He said by harmonising their mandates, the FCCPC and NCC aim to ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and sustainable growth in the industry.