JUST-IN: Exchange Telecom Faces Imminent Disconnection Over Unpaid Interconnect Fees
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has authorized the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) due to the non-payment of interconnect charges.
In a statement issued on Friday, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, explained that Exchange’s failure to settle its outstanding financial obligations led to this decision. The telecom operator had been duly notified of the application for disconnection and was given the chance to present its case. However, following a thorough review, the NCC determined that Exchange provided insufficient justification for the unpaid charges.
The NCC’s directive states that, under Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and the 2012 Guidelines for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, the disconnection is now confirmed. The disconnection will take effect in five days, after which MTN will no longer route voice and data traffic through Exchange. Instead, MTN will use alternative interconnection channels to maintain service continuity for its customers.
This decision will remain in effect until Exchange resolves its outstanding payments. Interconnect charges are vital for seamless communication between telecom operators, and this action underscores the NCC’s commitment to enforcing industry regulations and ensuring financial accountability.
At the time of reporting, Exchange Telecommunications had not issued an official response to the development.
