Yemisi Izuora
Following what could be described as temporary settlement between MNT and Globacom Nigeria Limited to settle outstanding debt issue, the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has put the phased disconnection on hold for a period of 21 (twenty-one) days from today, 17 January, 2024.
The Commission, announced that the parties have now reached agreement to resolve all outstanding issues between them and for this reason, and in exercise of its regulatory powers in that regard, has given more adjustment with the new dates.
On January 8, 2024 the Nigerian Communications Commission published a Pre-Disconnection Notice informing subscribers of the approval granted to MTN Nigerian Communications Plc. (MTN) to commence the phased disconnection of Globacom Limited (Glo) with effect from January 18, 2024 due to long-standing interconnection debt dispute between the parties.
In granting the approval, the Commission was deeply conscious of the potential impacts of the decision on consumers and therefore continued to engage both parties to facilitate a resolution which prioritizes and protects consumer interest and the seamless operation of the national telecoms network.
The Commission expects MTN and Glo to resolve all outstanding issues within the 21-day period, the Commission insists that interconnect debts must be settled by all operating companies as a necessary component towards compliance with regulatory obligations of all licensees.
The NCC said it is obligatory that Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and other licensees in the telecom industry keep to the terms and conditions of their licenses, especially as contained in their interconnection agreements.