NCC Issues 46 Licenses to Boost Nigeria's MVNO Sector

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a total of 46 licenses to mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) as part of its efforts to address the challenges faced by these operators and to promote competition in the telecommunications sector. The announcement was made during a public inquiry in Abuja, where Dr.

Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, and Mr. Usman Maman, the Director of Licensing and Authorizations, provided insights into the new regulatory framework.

This framework is designed to clarify licensing obligations and enhance the commercial relationship between MVNOs and mobile network operators (MNOs). The licensing structure includes five tiers, with 11 licenses issued in Tier 1, 16 in Tier 2, seven in Tier 3, 11 in Tier 4, and one in Tier 5.

Engr. Kenneth Nwabuez, President of the Association of Mobile Virtual Network Operators, emphasized the importance of effective enforcement of revenue-sharing arrangements and the need for clear operational guidelines to ensure successful market entry for MVNOs, contributing to Nigeria's digital economy.