Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NCC, Dr Aminu Maida.

The Nigerian Communications Commission NCC has announced the temporary suspension of the issuance of communications licences in three categories.

According to a statement by the Director, Public Affairs of the Commission, Reuben Muoka, the suspension is in line with the powers of the NCC under the Nigerian Communications Act NCA 2003, which empowers the Commission to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the communications industry.

The affected three categories include: Interconnect Exchange Licence, Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence and the Value Added Service Aggregator Licence.

According to him, the temporary suspension became necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within the three categories, which include the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.

The statement reads in part: “In line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act NCA 2003 to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the communications industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (the Commission) hereby informs all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on issuance of new licences in three categories:  Interconnect Exchange Licence, Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence and Value Added Service Aggregator Licence.

“This temporary suspension is necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within these categories, including the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.

“The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.

“Any enquiries or clarifications in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.”