Why we gave MTN approval to disconnect Exchange — NCC

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) said it has granted approval to MTN Nigeria to disconnect Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) over unpaid interconnect debts.

Exchange Telecommunications Limited prides itself as the largest local and international interconnect carrier in the country with four Points-of-Interconnect nationwide connected via a fibre ring to ensure redundancy, stability and efficiency.

But the NCC, in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said: “The NCC hereby notifies the public that approval has been granted for the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) as a result of non-settlement of interconnect charges.

“The public is, therefore, requested to take notice that: 1. 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; 2. At the expiration of 5 (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.

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“Please note that this disconnection will subsist until otherwise determined by the Commission.”