The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says it plans on introducing registration fees on type-approved telecommunication devices and shortcodes.
The declaration was made at the opening of a three-day public inquiry on draft telecom regulations and guidelines review on Tuesday in Abuja. It comes off the heels of the FG’s plans to implement a five per cent inclusive value-added tax (VAT) on telecommunication services.
According to Umar Danbatta, NCC executive vice-chairman, the review became necessary due to current happenings in the industry, and it is also aimed at amending all five existing regulatory instruments.
“The type approval regulations provide a framework for the approval of communications equipment for the connection to communications networks in Nigeria. It is pursuant to sections 130 to 134 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The guidelines on short code operation are intended to prescribe a standard of practice for providers of short code services,” Mr. Danbatta said.
The vice-chairman also mentioned that the guidelines will also provide a revised framework for the provision of these services and protection against their misuse.
“The third instrument being the guidelines on the technical specifications for the deployment of communications infrastructure. The fourth instrument is the guidelines on advertisements and promotions. It provides minimum requirements and standards for promotional advertisements by licensed telecommunications operators in Nigeria.
“There is also the fifth instrument, which is the consumer code of practice regulations.
“It is our expectation that this review will improve the standards and procedures for type approvals, operation of short codes, and advertisement and promotions,” the NCC boss noted.
