The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called stakeholders’ attention to the status of the payment of the N330 billion fine it slammed on MTN over its refusal to disconnect unregistered telecoms subscribers on its network. Out of the total sum, NCC said MTN Nigeria had only paid N110 billion representing only one-third of the fine and is expected to pay the remaining N220 billion to completely settle the fine.
The fine, the highest of its kind, drew global attention and resulted in several resignations at MTN Nigeria. It would be recalled that the regulator initially ordered the operator to pay N1.04 trillion in October 2015 for the over five million unregistered line. This was subsequently reduced to N330bn following negotiations involving the NCC, federal government and MTN.
Explaining the payment plan, NCC head said the operator is expected to settle the fine over a period of three years. This agreement was reportedly signed by all parties and was aimed at ensuring the survival of the company in spite of the fine.
NCC boss said, “Current evaluation report of the state of the industry suggests that whilst not understating the impact of other external and fiscal issues confronting the sector, that most challenges negatively affecting the health of operators in the sector today are attributable to poor governance issues.
“It is currently rejigging its regulatory oversights in the areas of ensuring that consumers get cost effective value for money spent on telecommunication services; and that service delivery by providers are qualitative and efficient.