NCC SPEECH:

REMARKS BY THE EXECUTIVE-VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AT THE EXECUTION OF THE MoU BETWEEN THE NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AND THE FEDERAL COMPETITION AND CONSUMER PROTECTION COMMISSION

Protocols

It is with great pleasure that I extend my warmest regards to all present on this remarkable occasion—the formal execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

This occasion is one that I would describe as long coming. It is the outcome of healthy engagements and events that have strengthened the resolve of both our institutions to protect the Nigerian consumer, especially in the communications industry.

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.

In an era of rapid technological advancements, the significance of collaboration between regulatory bodies cannot be overstated. The telecommunications sector, in particular, 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.

Our partnership also highlights the importance of synergy in regulatory oversight. 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.

Let me take this opportunity to commend the leadership of the FCCPC for their unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and promoting healthy competition across sectors. Your dedication complements our own mission at the NCC, and I am confident that this collaboration will yield significant benefits for the Nigerian people.

I also wish to acknowledge the hard work of the teams from both the NCC and FCCPC, who have worked tirelessly to bring this 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.

As we execute this MoU today, I call on all stakeholders to embrace the spirit of collaboration that this partnership represents. Together, we can achieve the goals of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and beyond.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved in making this historic partnership a reality. I look forward to the great strides we will make together in ensuring fair competition and consumer satisfaction in the years to come.

Thank you.

Dr. Aminu Maida

January 14, 2025