NCC Cracks Down on Debt: Exchange Telecommunications to be Disconnected from MTN Network

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has taken a bold step to address the issue of unpaid interconnect charges in the telecommunications industry. The commission has authorized the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited from the MTN Nigeria network due to the company’s failure to settle its financial obligations ¹.

According to the NCC, Exchange Telecommunications, a local and international interconnect carrier, was given the opportunity to comment on the matter but failed to provide sufficient justification for non-payment. The commission’s decision aligns with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.

What This Means for Consumers

The disconnection will take effect five days from the date of the notice, after which MTN will no longer pass voice and data traffic through Exchange Telecommunications. Instead, the network will utilize alternative channels to interconnect with other Network Service Providers. This change may potentially impact consumers who rely on Exchange Telecommunications for their communication needs.

The NCC’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of prompt payment and adherence to regulatory guidelines in the telecommunications industry. As the commission continues to monitor the situation, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the industry as a whole