NCC Concludes Framework For Mobile Virtual Network Operators; Set To Dish Out MVNOs’ Licences

By Clifford Agugoesi, Editor-in-Chief

Independent telecommunications referee, the Nigerian Communications Commission(NCC) recognizing that technological advancements, in the industry such  as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, Network as a Service (NaaS) and Internet  of Things (IoT) are redefining service-delivery in line with global  trends,  is currently reviewing its license categories.

Towards this end, the Commission has said it has finalized the framework for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and is  currently in the process of licensing MVNOs. The Director, Licensing And  Authorization Department, at NCC, Mohammed Babajika dropped this hint in his  opening remarks at  ‘The Talk to the Regulator  Forum’ (TTTR) in Yenegoa, Bayelsa, south south of the country.

TTTR is an annual stakeholder’s consultation forum and was conceptualized to achieve the

following objectives:

* To educate Licensees on their various license obligations.

*To provide a platform where Licensees can openly discuss challenges  experienced in the course of operations and together with the Commission  proffer solutions.

*To provide a platform where top Management of the Commission can receive  feedback directly from the industry to aid in decision-making.

*To educate Licensees on topical regulatory issues and obtain feedback on the  impact of the Commission’s regulatory policies

*To guide in the identification and development of new categories of licences  (for services not covered by existing licence categories).

*To assess the impact of emerging trends in the Nigerian telecom space.

The licensing of MVNO, according to Mr. Babajika, would improve  the telecommunication output of the country, enable the expansion and availability  of quality mobile coverage and close the gap to the unserved and underserved  population in Nigeria.

While guaranteeing the Commission’s  fullest commitment in discharging its mandate, he said it could only  achieve this with the cooperation and support of Licensees adding the Commission  therefore recognized the importance of various service providers and sought to constantly engage with these service providers and thereby protect the health and  growth of the telecoms industry.

Babajika stated: “The Commission therefore hopes that Licensees will take advantage of this Forum  to seek clarifications with respect to any issues such as: license obligations, renewal  processes and procedures and emerging trends in the industry. I would like to assure  you that the Commission will take your recommendations on-board (as has been  done in the past) and will ensure that ideas gleaned are implemented to impact the  industry positively.

It is therefore my pleasure to once again welcome you all to this event and encourage  us to be frank and constructive in our deliberations as telecoms industry  sustainability can only be guaranteed when all stakeholders fully and actively  participate in the industry.” .”

-With Additional Reporting By Precious John, Senior Special Correspondent