Nigerian Communications Commission Reviews Rules for Mobile Virtual Network Operators

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has initiated a review of the business rules governing Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) within the Nigerian telecommunications sector. This move is part of the commission's strategic focus on deepening competition, expanding access to services, and fostering innovation.

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The introduction of the MVNO business rule reflects the Commission’s broader commitment to deepening competition, expanding access, and driving innovation in line with its strategic focus on digital inclusion and a robust telecom ecosystem.

Dr. Aminu Maida, the NCC's Executive Vice Chairman, stated that the review of these rules is designed to improve the overall telecom ecosystem. He emphasized that the MVNO business rules provide essential clarity on licensing, operational duties, and the relationships between MVNOs and host network operators. The framework also aims to protect consumer interests and maintain market integrity.

Speaking at a stakeholders' forum in Abuja, Maida, represented by Usman Mamman, Director of Licensing and Authorisation, highlighted the commission's commitment to digital inclusion. He stressed that the NCC expects full compliance from all operators and will continue to enforce established guidelines.

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The MVNO business rules are designed to provide clarity on licensing, operational responsibilities, and relationships with host network operators while safeguarding consumer interest and market integrity.

Usman Mamman further explained that the introduction of MVNOs into Nigeria's telecom landscape was a result of extensive planning and consultation. The framework is flexible, accommodating various business models and operational capabilities, thereby encouraging broader participation. Currently, 46 MVNO licenses have been issued across different tiers.

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The framework enables qualified operators to provide mobile communication services by leveraging the infrastructure of existing mobile network operators, without the need to own dedicated radio spectrum or deploy nationwide radio access networks.

However, the Association of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (AMNO) has appealed to the NCC to address critical issues concerning revenue sharing models and the practical implementation of the rules. AMNO President Ken Nwabueze specifically raised questions about the necessity and structure of revenue sharing and the enforcement mechanisms.

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One is the revenue sharing, whether it’s necessary or whether it’s the right way to go, or a hybrid of it, and how we define that rule. The second one is enforcement.