The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its decision to approve the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) due to the failure of Exchange to settle interconnect charges.
In a statement issued by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the Commission highlighted that Exchange was duly notified of the application and given the opportunity to provide comments and justify its position regarding the outstanding interconnect charges. However, after reviewing the case and the circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, the NCC determined that Exchange failed to provide sufficient reasons for not settling the interconnect charges.
In line with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012, the NCC has approved the disconnection of Exchange from MTN.
The statement read:
“The Commission has approved the Disconnection of Exchange to MTN in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.”
Effective five days from the date of this notice, MTN will cease to route both voice and data traffic through Exchange. MTN is required to utilize alternative channels for interconnecting with other network service providers.
The NCC further emphasized that the disconnection will remain in effect until further notice by the Commission, thereby urging stakeholders to adhere to regulatory frameworks to avoid similar circumstances.
This move underscores the Commission’s commitment to enforcing regulatory standards and ensuring that telecom operators uphold their financial obligations.
