The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have made formal a partnership aimed at eliminating regulatory gaps and enhancing consumer protection in the telecommunications industry.

The two agencies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in Abuja, committing to greater regulatory collaboration and efficiency.

The agreement was designed to harmonize oversight functions between the two bodies, addressing challenges posed by overlapping regulations to ensure that consumer issues and market violations are effectively managed without duplication or conflict.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, stressed the importance of synergy among regulatory agencies.

He said: “This explains the interwoven relationship between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

"It ensures that if one agency, due to certain limitations, fails to identify or address a consumer issue or regulatory violation, the other agency, potentially with a different perspective, will be able to step in effectively.”

He stressed that Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) mandates cooperation between the FCCPC and sector regulators, describing the MoU as a critical step towards fulfilling this legal requirement.

According to him, the partnership simplifies the process for consumers by reducing the need to navigate between two government agencies on the same issue. He added that it would also benefit telecoms operators by streamlining their operations and offering a one-stop-shop approach for regulatory oversight.

Mr Bello described the achievement as both challenging and rewarding, attributing its success to the unwavering commitment of Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the NCC, and the shared vision of both institutions.

“The signing of this MoU represents the unification of two dedicated regulatory bodies, aligning with legal mandates to close gaps in telecoms industry oversight,” he concluded.