By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled draft Business Rules for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) as part of efforts to promote fair competition, protect smaller operators, and strengthen Nigeria’s telecommunications ecosystem.
The proposed framework is designed to prevent larger Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) from using pricing structures or operational delays to frustrate smaller operators and virtual network providers in the industry.
In line with its stakeholder engagement process, the NCC has invited industry players and interested parties to submit feedback on the draft rules on or before June 29, 2026.
The Commission also announced that a public consultation forum will be held on July 9, 2026, where stakeholders’ contributions and recommendations will be reviewed and harmonized before the final implementation of the framework.
According to the NCC, the new rules are aimed at creating a level playing field for all operators, encouraging healthy competition, and accelerating growth in the country’s telecom sector.
Key aspects of the proposed framework include strict onboarding timelines, fair pricing models, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and mandatory compliance obligations for telecom operators.
Under the draft rules, host network operators are required to confirm receipt of MVNO connection requests within 10 days and provide technical readiness feedback within 20 days.
The framework also mandates that all business and technical agreements between parties must be completed within 120 days to prevent unnecessary delays.
To ensure fair market participation, the NCC introduced benchmark pricing structures covering data, voice calls, SMS, and USSD services. The pricing model is expected to prevent dominant operators from pushing smaller virtual operators out of the market through anti-competitive pricing.
The proposed rules further establish a tier-based operational framework that clearly defines the scope, responsibilities, and operational limits of different categories of MVNOs, ranging from basic virtual operators to core facilities providers.
In addition, the framework places strong emphasis on consumer protection and Quality of Service (QoS), with clear obligations for operators regarding traffic routing, service delivery standards, and customer experience.
The NCC noted that the draft business rules are intended to ensure that quality service delivery and consumer satisfaction remain central within Nigeria’s evolving telecom industry.
