NCC Proposes New Mobile Termination Rates, Receives Industry Approval

Stories by Emma Okonji

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun reviewing the determination of Mobile Termination Rates (MTR) for the telecoms sector, a move that will shape how voice communication is priced.

When the review, conducted by KPMG, is completed, the NCC plans to launch a new MTR structure within the next four months.

During a stakeholder consultative forum in Lagos, Omotayo Mohammed, Head of the Competition and Tariff Unit at NCC, explained that the forum would formally engage stakeholders in the consultancy study on MTR determination. He also outlined the study’s approach, methodology, and the timeline for the data‑gathering phase.

“Changes in exchange rate regimes and inflation rates have substantially altered the cost structures associated with providing communications services in Nigeria. For regulation to remain effective in a fast‑moving market, our frameworks must evolve in step with it,” Mohammed said.

Oluwole Adelokun, Partner in Strategy & Customer Solutions at KPMG, described the study’s objectives: “We have five objectives. The first is to carry out an impact assessment of the current interconnection regime and review what has happened between 2018 and now. Then, we intend to develop an updated regulatory framework for wholesale and retail pricing of the components.”

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), said the review was necessary and well guided by current micro‑realities. He commended the NCC for facilitating the planned review.