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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has granted approval for MTN Nigeria to disconnect Exchange Telecommunications Ltd. from its network over unpaid interconnect charges.
In a public notice issued on Friday and signed by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, the commission confirmed the decision, stating that Exchange Telecommunications, a local and international interconnect carrier, had failed to settle outstanding debts.
“The Nigerian Communications Commission hereby notifies the public that approval has been granted for the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Ltd. (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. (MTN) as a result of non-settlement of interconnect charges,” the notice read.
The NCC revealed that Exchange Telecommunications was duly notified of MTN’s application to sever the connection and was given an opportunity to present its case. However, after examining the circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, the commission found no sufficient justification for the company’s non-payment of the charges.
The disconnection was carried out in compliance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.
“At the expiration of five days from the date of this notice, MTN will discontinue passing voice and data traffic through Exchange and will, thereafter, utilise alternative channels in interconnecting with other network service providers,” the NCC stated.
The commission further noted that the disconnection will remain in effect until otherwise directed.
This development underscores the NCC’s commitment to ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining the integrity of interconnect agreements in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
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