The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently granted approval for the partial disconnection of Globacom, a telecommunications company, from MTN Nigeria Communications Plc.
This decision stems from the non-settlement of interconnect charges by Globacom.
In a public notice issued on Monday and signed by Reuben Muoka, the NCC Director of Public Affairs Department, it was stated that, following the expiration of 10 days from the date of the notice, subscribers of Globacom would no longer be able to initiate calls to MTN numbers. However, they would still be able to receive incoming calls.
The public notice emphasized that the NCC had informed Globacom about MTN’s application and provided an opportunity for Globacom to present its case.
After thorough examination of the application and the circumstances surrounding the unpaid interconnect charges, the NCC determined that Globacom lacked sufficient and justifiable reasons for non-payment.
The disconnection, as approved by the NCC, aligns with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and Paragraph 9 of the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.
It was highlighted that this partial disconnection would persist until the NCC decides otherwise.
It’s important for all subscribers to take note of these developments, as the impact will be felt in terms of outgoing calls from Globacom to MTN.
However, inbound calls to the Globacom network will still be allowed during this period.
This regulatory action underscores the significance of adhering to interconnect agreements and the financial obligations associated with them in the telecommunications sector, ultimately ensuring a fair and equitable environment for all operators involved.
