NCC's Draft Rules for MVNOs Gain Stakeholder Support

Stakeholders in Nigeria's telecommunications sector have expressed support for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)'s draft business rules for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) during a consultation forum held in Abuja. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, and Usman Mamman, the Director of Licensing and Authorization, emphasized that the proposed rules are designed to enhance competition, expand access, and promote innovation in line with Nigeria's digital inclusion agenda.

The rules aim to provide clarity on licensing and operational responsibilities between MVNOs and host mobile network operators, ensuring consumer protection and market integrity. Mamman highlighted the need for strict compliance with these regulations, which will cover onboarding, interconnection, resource management, and revenue-sharing principles.

Ken Nwabuez, President of the MVNO Association, welcomed the proposed framework but urged the NCC to prioritize enforcement and address unresolved concerns regarding revenue-sharing arrangements. The NCC has issued 46 MVNO licenses across five categories since the regulatory plan began in 2017.