The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today began a two-day Public Inquiry into three crucial regulatory instruments aimed at bolstering industry standards and addressing emerging challenges.
The event, held at the NCC headquarters in Abuja and accessible virtually, seeks to gather extensive input from industry stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in the development of robust regulatory frameworks.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the significance of the event in his opening remarks. He highlighted the NCC’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in regulatory processes, stating that the public inquiry exemplifies the Commission’s dedication to hearing and considering all stakeholders’ voices.
“The regulatory instruments under review are critical in shaping our communications landscape. It is essential that we revisit and refine them to address emerging challenges, trends, and opportunities,” Dr. Maida said.
The three regulatory instruments under scrutiny are:
1. **Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations**: These regulations are vital for enabling seamless communication between different networks and fostering industry growth. The review aims to align with technological advancements, protect consumer interests, and improve regulatory efficiency.
2. **Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators**: These guidelines provide a procedural framework for disconnecting operators, ensuring transparency and accountability in such actions.
3. **Guidelines for Dispute Resolution**: Recognizing that disputes are inevitable, these guidelines aim to provide a clear mechanism for resolving conflicts within the communications sector, promoting timely resolutions and fair treatment of stakeholders.
Mrs. Chizua Whyte, the Acting Head of the Legal and Regulatory Services Department of NCC, welcomed participants to the event. She noted the importance of both in-person and virtual attendees in contributing to the discussions.
Participants are encouraged to engage in meaningful and constructive discussions to reflect the current needs and challenges of the Nigerian communications industry. Dr. Maida underscored the collective goal of creating an environment that fosters innovation, encourages fair competition, and ultimately serves the best interests of all stakeholders.
The Public Inquiry continues tomorrow, with stakeholders expected to provide valuable feedback that will shape the future of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.