NCC Approves MTN’s Disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Over Unpaid Charges

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) due to Exchange’s failure to settle outstanding interconnect charges.

In a public notice issued by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the Commission clarified that Exchange was given ample opportunity to address the situation but failed to provide satisfactory reasons for the non-payment.

“The Commission has approved the disconnection of Exchange to MTN in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012,” the statement read.

The notice further explained that MTN would cease passing voice and data traffic through Exchange within five days of the announcement. “At the expiration of five days from the date of this notice, MTN will discontinue passing voice and data traffic through Exchange and will, thereafter, utilise alternative channels in interconnecting with other network service providers,” the NCC declared.

The Commission also noted that the disconnection would remain in effect until further notice or until the matter is resolved to its satisfaction.