The (NCC) has moved to address operational challenges confronting Mobile Virtual Network Operators, MVNOs, with the introduction of a new regulatory framework, even as it confirmed the issuance of 46 licences under the scheme.
Speaking at a public inquiry on the draft MVNO Business Rules in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, , said the initiative was aimed at strengthening industry operations, deepening competition and expanding access to telecommunications services across the country.
Maida, who was represented by the Director of Licensing and Authorisation, Mr Usman Maman, said the proposed rules would provide clear operational guidelines, define responsibilities of operators and enhance commercial relationships between MVNOs and Mobile Network Operators, MNOs.
According to him, the Commission’s action is in line with its commitment to ensure a transparent, fair and predictable regulatory environment that aligns with global best practices.
He explained that the draft framework addresses key operational areas including onboarding and integration processes, hosting arrangements, interconnection, numbering resources, SIM and eSIM management, quality of service, infrastructure access, consumer protection and dispute resolution.
The NCC boss noted that the Commission had also taken into consideration concerns raised by industry stakeholders, particularly issues relating to onboarding delays, technical integration challenges, access to network infrastructure and complexities in commercial negotiations.
Giving an overview of the framework, Maman said the process began in 2017 following a market readiness assessment which confirmed that Nigeria’s telecommunications sector had attained the maturity required to support MVNO operations.
He added that this led to the introduction of a five-tier licensing structure in 2023 to accommodate different business models and technical capacities.
“As of today, a total of 46 MVNO licences have been issued across the various tiers,” he said.
Breakdown of the licences shows that one was issued under Tier 1, 11 under Tier 2, 16 under Tier 3, seven under Tier 4 and 11 under Tier 5.
Maman, however, stressed that beyond licensing, the success of the initiative would depend on clear operational guidelines to effectively regulate interactions among industry players.
Meanwhile, President of the Association of Mobile Virtual Network Operators, Engr Kenneth Nwabueze, described the move as timely, noting that operators now have practical experience to support regulatory refinement.
He, however, called for strong enforcement of the rules and fair revenue-sharing arrangements between MVNOs and host network operators, stressing that balanced partnerships would be critical to the growth of the segment and Nigeria’s digital economy.
