Strengthening Consumer Protection: NCC and FCCPC Sign Landmark Memorandum of Understanding

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From Left: Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Dr. Tunji Bello and Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, during the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between the two regulatory agencies for increased telecom consumer protection in Abuja
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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has signed a a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering consumer protection and fostering fair competition in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that the MoU is a culmination of rigorous engagements between the two regulatory bodies. “Today, we celebrate the beginning of a strategic partnership between two critical institutions, each committed to advancing the welfare of the Nigerian people through fair competition and robust consumer protection frameworks,” he stated.

Dr. Maida underscored the role of collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements and the increasing complexity of the digital economy. “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 all stakeholders in the communications sector,” he added.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, emphasized the necessity of collaboration between regulatory agencies. “By design, regulations are often interwoven and overlapping, serving as a mechanism to prevent issues from slipping through the cracks. This partnership ensures comprehensive oversight and consumer protection without regulatory conflicts or duplications,” he explained.

Mr. Bello highlighted the legal foundation for this collaboration, citing Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which mandates cooperation between the FCCPC and sector regulators. “The signing of this MoU symbolizes the convergence of two diligent government agencies, ensuring that telecoms consumers benefit from coordinated regulatory oversight,” he stated.

The partnership promises significant benefits, including:

  • Streamlined Operations: Telecom operators will experience simplified processes through a “one-stop-shop” approach in many instances, reducing administrative burdens.
  • Enhanced Consumer Protection: The MoU ensures robust mechanisms to safeguard consumer rights and address market abuses effectively.
  • Economic Growth: This collaboration aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory efficiency and prioritizing consumer welfare.

Both leaders commended the dedication of their respective teams in bringing this partnership to fruition. Dr. Maida praised the FCCPC’s unwavering commitment to protecting consumers and promoting healthy competition. “Your dedication complements our mission at the NCC, and I am confident this collaboration will yield significant benefits for the Nigerian people,” he said.

Mr. Bello encouraged other sector regulators to emulate this collaborative framework, emphasizing the importance of regulatory synergy in achieving comprehensive oversight and consumer protection across all sectors.

The signing ceremony marks the beginning of a transformative partnership that will set new benchmarks in regulatory collaboration, ensuring a fair, competitive, and consumer-friendly telecommunications industry in Nigeria.

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