In a respite for Globacom and its subscribers, the interconnect debt dispute between MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Globacom Limited has been amicably resolved.
The news was broken by none other than the industry regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which had in January announced datelines for disconnection of Glo subscribers from making calls to MTN lines over the non-settlement of interconnect charges.
In a statement on Thursday signed by the Director, Public Affairs Department, Reuben Muoka, the NCC said the matter has been settled.
The statement 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with this resolution, the disconnection approval granted to MTN for the disconnection of Globacom has now been withdrawn.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.
“The Commission reiterates that strict adherence to the terms and conditions of licenses, particularly those delineated in interconnection agreements, is imperative for all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and other licensees within the telecommunications industry.
“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.”
The industry regulator had earlier in January announced its intention to disconnect Glo customers in 10 days time over interconnect charges owed by Glo. Its statement read: “The Nigerian Communications Commission hereby notifies the public and subscribers of Globacom Limited (Globacom) that approval has been granted for the partial disconnection of Globacom from MTN Nigeria Communications Plc. due to non-settlement of interconnect charges.
“Globacom was notified of the application made by MTN, and was given opportunity to comment and state its case. The Commission, having examined the application and circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, determined that Globacom does not have sufficient or justifiable reason for non-payment of the interconnect charges.
“All subscribers are therefore requested to take notice that: The Commission has approved the partial disconnection of Globacom to MTN in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 and Paragraph 9 of the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012.”
However, in a relief of sorts for subscribers, a statement by Reuben Muoka, NCC Director of Public Affairs Department, dated 17th January 2024, said MTN and Glo are expected to resolve all outstanding issues within a 21-day period and normal services would continue uninterrupted.
