Telecoms: NCC increases International Termination Rate by 122%
…retains old charges Mobile Termination Rates
By Ibrahim Adeleke
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has increased Mobile (Voice) International Termination Rate (ITR) by 122.2 per cent, from the old rate of $0.045 to $0.10 as contained in its amended determination issued yesterday, Wednesday, August 31.
The new rate is expected to be implemented in the Nigerian Telecommunications Industry effective from today, September 1, 2022.
In the new amended rate, the ITR for voice services paid for terminating international calls on local networks in Nigeria is now set at $0.10, from the old rate of $0.045.
Under the amended determination, the international carrier market has been classified into MNOs/International Carriers and Small/Nigerian Transit Carriers/IDA Operators to ensure a level playing field that recognizes the unique disposition and characteristics of genuine market participants.
The Nigerian Transit Carriers/IDA Operators shall terminate inbound international calls in the network of domestic operators at a discount of 21 per cent on the $0.10.
A statement signed by the NCC Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, stated that in determining the ITR, “the Commission carefully considered information and insights provided by stakeholders at different meetings and fora, which reviewed the previous rate and the industry’s operating environment. This is in addition to the cost model results, the state of competition in the sector and the Nigerian macroeconomic environment.
“The Commission reiterates that the process of arriving at the ITR was conducted transparently with a view to providing maximum clarity to all parties without compromising the confidentiality of commercially sensitive information.
“It expressed confidence that the new ITR, the outcome of the various engagements, will make a significant contribution to the development of the telecoms sector in Nigeria and be beneficial to subscribers, operators, and the country at large.”
Meanwhile, the regulatory agency said the Mobile Termination Rates of N3.90 (for Generic 2G/3G/4G Operators) and N4.70 (for new entrants (LTE)/Small Operators determined in 2018) will continue to apply for local call terminations until the Commission makes a new determination.
