The interconnect debt dispute between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Globacom Limited has been settled amicably, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
NCC’s disconnection approval granted to MTN for disconnecting Globacom has now been withdrawn.
The resolution came within the 21-day grace period that the NCC had given Glo in January.
Previously, 61.54 million mobile subscriptions on Glo’s network were at risk of disconnection from making calls to MTN due to non-settlement of interconnect charges.
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The NCC had initially announced that Glo subscribers might be barred from calling MTN lines, with a directive that could take effect after a 10-day notice period.
Later, the commission extended the notice by 21 days to allow the disputing parties to reach an agreement, considering the impact on subscribers.
The NCC stressed its commitment to enforcing the terms and conditions of licenses, especially those outlined in interconnection agreements.
A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs Department, Reuben Muoka read:
“The Nigerian Communications Commission is pleased to announce that the interconnect debt dispute between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc. and Globacom Limited has been amicably resolved.
“In accordance with this resolution, the disconnection approval granted to MTN for the disconnection of Globacom has now been withdrawn.
“Following its initial public notice, the commission with the aim of mitigating any potential disruptions to subscribers undertook further regulatory intervention, by mediating between the parties and facilitating the reconciliation process
“In order to proactively address and prevent future instances of interconnect indebtedness within the industry, the commission will be requesting relevant records and regular updates from MNOs, as well as adopting a transparent approach towards industry indebtedness.
“This statement serves as a reminder of the Commission’s commitment to fostering a stable and compliant telecommunications ecosystem in Nigeria.”
