The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a review of interconnection rates in the telecommunications sector, a move that could potentially influence the cost of calls and SMS services across networks in Nigeria.
Interconnection rates also known as Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs) are the wholesale charges telecom operators pay one another to complete calls or deliver messages across different networks. Any adjustment to these rates often has a ripple effect on retail pricing, depending on how service providers respond.
According to industry sources, the ongoing review is aimed at reassessing the existing pricing framework in light of current economic realities, including inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and rising operational costs faced by telecom operators.
The review is being conducted by the Nigerian Communications Commission, which oversees pricing standards, competition, and service quality in the country’s communications sector. Stakeholders in the industry, including major mobile network operators, are expected to participate in the consultation process.
Telecom operators have long argued that the current interconnection rates are no longer reflective of Nigeria’s economic environment. They cite increased costs of infrastructure maintenance, diesel for powering base stations, and foreign exchange pressures affecting imported equipment.
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