The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the suspension of its planned barring of Glo subscribers from calling MTN lines for a period of 21 days. This decision comes as a follow-up to the Pre-Disconnection Notice issued on January 8, 2024.
In the initial notice, the NCC had granted approval to MTN Nigerian Communications Plc. to begin the phased disconnection of Globacom Limited starting January 18, 2024, citing a long-standing interconnection debt dispute between the two telecom giants.
However, in a recent statement signed by Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, the NCC revealed that both parties have reached an agreement to address all outstanding issues. Consequently, the commission has decided to put the phased disconnection on hold for 21 days from January 17, 2024.
While expressing optimism that MTN and Glo will resolve their issues within the stipulated timeframe, the NCC emphasized the importance of settling interconnect debts as a crucial aspect of regulatory compliance for all telecom licensees.
The extension notice also highlighted potential impacts on consumers if the disconnection were to proceed. Mobile network operators and other licensees in the telecom industry were urged to adhere to the terms and conditions specified in their interconnection agreements.
Earlier on Thursday, the NCC had indicated its intention to advise Globacom subscribers on the next steps following the expiration of a 10-day grace period for the barring of their lines from making calls to MTN lines.
NCC Director Of Public Affairs , Reuben Mouka To Communicate Further Informations
Reuben Mouka stated, “We will come out with some information about that, most likely today, in the next few hours.”
Read also: Dollar to Naira Black Market Rate Today January 18, 2024 : Aboki FX Latest Rates
The longstanding interconnection debt dispute between MTN and Glo dates back to previous incidents, including a brief disconnection in 2019 over a N4 billion debt.
A source close to Glo has confirmed the payment within the allowed window, expressing surprise at the current developments. However, issues regarding interest payments and VAT remittance still persist.
Despite partial payments, the NCC’s intervention and involvement of the National Assembly suggest that a comprehensive resolution is yet to be reached. Both telecom firms await further instructions from the regulatory body.
