Big telcos, watch out — the NCC is levelling the playing field so smaller operators actually get a fair shot.

The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, is stepping in to give the little guys a fighting chance. They’ve just dropped a draft Business Rules framework for Mobile Virtual Network Operators, MVNOs, and it’s all about stopping the big Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, from muscling everyone else out of the market. Think sneaky pricing tricks or endless delays when smaller players want to connect — the NCC is basically saying “not on our watch.”

So, what’s in the new rules? Quite a bit, actually. Host networks will now have to acknowledge an MVNO’s connection request within 10 days and confirm if they’re technically ready within 20 days. No more ghosting. Plus, all the business and technical agreements have to be wrapped up within 120 days, so nobody gets stuck in limbo.

On the pricing side, the NCC is setting benchmark rates for data, voice, SMS, and USSD. The goal is simple: stop dominant telcos from using anti-competitive pricing to squeeze virtual operators out. There’s also a tiered operational framework that spells out who does what, plus rules on revenue-sharing and compliance that everyone has to follow.

Before anything’s set in stone, the NCC wants to hear from you. They’re asking industry players and interested parties to send feedback on the draft by **29 June 2026**. Then, mark your calendar for **9 July 2026** — there’s a public consultation forum where all those comments will be reviewed and worked into the final version.

Bottom line? The NCC says this is about fair competition, healthier growth, and a telecoms ecosystem where smaller operators can actually thrive.

Source: cbinews.tv

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