A temporary reprieve has come for subscribers of Globacom as the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, intervenes to avoid a disconnection of its connectivity with MTN.
A statement by NCC spokesman, Reuben Muoka disclosed that both telcos have agreed to resolve all outstanding issues between them.
Credible News reports that the regulator had earlier granted MTN the permission to to commence the phased disconnection of Globacom Limited with effect from January 18, 2024 due to long-standing interconnection debt dispute between the parties.
Industry sources hinted that the interconnect charges which started over 15 years ago have now accumulated into billions of naira which MTN and the NCC can no longer ignore.
“In granting the approval, the Commission was deeply conscious of the potential impacts of the decision on consumers and therefore continued to engage both parties to facilitate a resolution which prioritizes and protects consumer interest and the seamless operation of the national telecoms network.
“The Commission is pleased to announce that the parties have now reached agreement to resolve all outstanding issues between them. For this reason, and in exercise of its regulatory powers in that regard, the Commission has put the phased disconnection on hold for a period of 21 days from 17 January, 2024.
“Whilst the Commission expects MTN and Glo to resolve all outstanding issues within the 21-day period, the Commission insists that interconnect debts must be settled by all operating companies as a necessary component towards compliance with regulatory obligations of all licensees.
“It is obligatory that Mobile Network Operators and other licensees in the telecom industry keep to the terms and conditions of their licenses, especially as contained in their interconnection agreements,” Muoka advised.
