The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has extended the time frame for Globacom subscribers to call MTN lines by an additional 21 days. This decision follows the postponement of the planned barring of Glo subscribers from making calls to MTN lines, originally scheduled to commence on January 18, 2024. In a statement signed by Director of Public Affairs Reuben Mouka, the NCC revealed that the extension is a result of a recent agreement reached between the two telecom giants to resolve their longstanding interconnection debt dispute.
The NCC emphasized its regulatory powers in the matter and expressed satisfaction with the commitment demonstrated by both parties in resolving the issues. The commission acknowledged that the potential disconnection could impact consumers and urged all mobile network operators to settle interconnect debts promptly as part of their regulatory obligations.
In the initial pre-disconnection notice issued on January 8, 2024, the NCC granted approval to MTN Nigerian Communications Plc. to initiate the phased disconnection of Globacom Limited due to the interconnection debt dispute. The commission, in its latest statement, highlighted the necessity of settling such debts among operating companies to ensure compliance with regulatory obligations.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the commission’s intervention with a focus on consumer interests. He stated that both parties had committed to resolving the issues within the extended 21-day period. Dr. Maida added that the NCC is actively working on creating a framework for a permanent solution to the interconnect debt challenges within the telecom industry.
The NCC’s decision to postpone the planned disconnection comes after The PUNCH reported that the commission is set to advise Globacom subscribers on the next steps following the expiration of a 10-day grace period. Dr Maida clarified that the commission’s primary concern is consumer welfare and quality of experience in the telecommunications sector. The ongoing dispute between MTN and Glo over interconnect charges dates back to 2019 when MTN briefly disconnected Glo subscribers over a N4 billion debt.
