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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has given the green light for MTN Nigeria to disconnect Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) due to unpaid bills.
Reuben Muoka, NCC’s spokesperson, explained in a statement on Friday that Exchange failed to pay interconnect charges despite being notified and given time to explain the delay. After reviewing the situation, the NCC found no valid reason for the non-payment.
“Based on the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and the 2012 guidelines, we have approved the disconnection of Exchange from MTN,” the statement said.
The disconnection will take effect in five days. Once it happens, MTN will stop routing calls and data through Exchange. However, MTN has assured its customers that alternative routes will be used to ensure their services remain uninterrupted.
Interconnect fees are vital for telecom operators to share networks and keep communication services running smoothly. The NCC said this action underscores its commitment to enforcing the rules and holding operators accountable.
As of now, Exchange Telecommunications has not responded to the announcement.
