The Nigerian Communications Communication NCC, yesterday concluded its two-day Public Inquiry as a prelude to the review of three subsidiary regulatory instruments, as part of measures to secure industry stakeholders’ inputs and buy-in for the proposed review.

Meanwhile, the Commission has also restated its commitment to promoting an efficient, accessible and competitive telecoms industry, while ensuring transparency and inclusivity in its regulatory functions.

The three regulatory instruments for review include the Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations, Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators and Guidelines for Dispute Resolution.

Speaking at the two-day event, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, said the Commission deemed it necessary and expedient to seek valuable contributions and feedback from the stakeholders that are vital in shaping a path forward that benefits all.

According to him, the NCC as the independent regulatory authority for the industry, has always been committed to promoting an efficient, accessible and competitive telecom industry. He noted that the public inquiry further underscores the Commission’s dedication to transparency and inclusivity by ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered.

The event is in tandem with the Commission’s consultative approach to getting inputs from industry stakeholders as a way of ensuring inclusivity in its development of any regulatory instrument.

He noted that given the need to meet the demand of the ever-evolving digital age, the regulatory instruments play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s communications landscape adding it is essential that the country revisits and refines them.

On the first regulatory instrument for review, which is the Telecommunications Networks Interconnect Regulations, he observed that interconnection plays a vital role in enabling seamless communication between two different networks, while facilitating the growth of the communications industry in Nigeria.

He argued that the review had become expedient and crucial to keep pace with technological advancement, foster competition, protect consumer interest, align with international standards and improve regulatory efficiency in the industry.

“The second instrument to be reviewed is Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators. As the industry continues to evolve is the main instances where disconnection of operators becomes necessary these guidelines lay out the procedural framework through which such approvals are granted, ensuring that they are carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.

“Lastly, we will be reviewing the guidelines for is Guidelines for Dispute Resolution. Disputes are an inevitable part of any industry. In fact, it is indisputable in any transaction and having a robust framework to resolve them is crucial, and these guidelines aim to provide a clear and transparent mechanism for resolving conflicts within the communications sector promoting timely resolutions and ensuring that stakeholders are treated fairly.

“As disputes arise, we must evaluate and improve these guidelines to ensure they remain effective in resolving conflicts and promoting a stable telecommunications ecosystem.

“These regulatory instruments play a vital role in shaping our communications landscape and it is essential that we visit and refine them to address emerging challenges, trends and opportunities. The instruments that we considered during the course of this public inquiry are vital in ensuring the communications sector meets the demand of the ever-evolving digital age. Therefore, your various inputs will be invaluable in shaping the future of our telecommunications sector. Together we can create an environment that inspires innovation, encourages fair competition and ultimately serves the best interest of all stakeholders”, Dr Maida also said.

Acting head of the Legal and Regulatory Services department of the NCC, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, who spoke earlier at the event, noted that the Public Inquiry remains a vital part of the Commission’s mandate to create a dynamic communications sector in the country.

She observed that the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 empowers the NCC to develop and amend regulatory instruments, adding that the stakeholders’ input remains crucial in refining the regulations as part of efforts to address the sector’s evolving challenges.

Mrs. Whyte also noted that as the communications industry evolves with emerging technologies, the country’s regulatory instruments must adapt swiftly, adding that the Commission’s collaborative efforts with stakeholders have driven significant advancements and will continue to propel the sector forward.

She said: “This Public Inquiry underscores our commitment to regulatory excellence and to building a robust communications sector that supports the Nigerian economy. We value your contributions and look forward to shaping a strong, dynamic communications industry together.”