The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at safeguarding Nigerians from exploitative practices in the telecommunications sector.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday, establishes a framework for collaboration between the two regulatory agencies to ensure consumer protection, eliminate regulatory conflicts, and enhance market efficiency.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive of the FCCPC, described the partnership as consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through enhanced regulatory collaboration and consumer welfare.
“Through this partnership, the FCCPC and NCC would be making life easier for the generality of consumers in dealing with two government agencies on the same issue at the same time,” Bello said.
“The signing of the MoU symbolises the convergence of two diligent government agencies in compliance with legal requirements to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecoms industry. Guided by our shared vision, this partnership will benefit both operators and consumers.”
Bello emphasized that the agreement would create a “one-stop-shop” approach for telecom operators and consumers, ensuring robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices.
In his remarks, Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, highlighted the importance of the partnership in advancing the welfare of Nigerian consumers, particularly in the rapidly evolving communications sector.
“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,” Maida said.
He added that in an era of technological advancements, collaboration between regulatory bodies is vital to ensure a level playing field for stakeholders and protect consumers relying on affordable and reliable communication services.
“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,” he said.
