The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the country’s regulator, has announced plans for a study to assess the current level of competition in the colocation and infrastructure sharing (CIS) segment of the Nigerian telecommunications sector.
The study is to enable the Commission to have what it describes as “insightful and evidence-based facts to glean the dynamics at play and ensure the continuous growth of the CIS segment of the telecom market”. The NCC says it sees this issue as a priority in view of the critical role played by the CIS segment of the telecom ecosystem in ensuring robust services.
The Commission has engaged consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to conduct the study on its behalf.
The NCC’s Director, Policy, Competition and Economy Analysis (PCEA), Yetunde Akinloye, pointed out at a recent stakeholders’ forum: “The CIS segment has recorded significant growth and transformation over the years, having about 80 licensees operating in the segment, while its performance and activities continue to impact significantly on other segments of the Nigerian industry.”
He added that the objective of the study is to provide insights into the level of competition in the CIS market segment and articulate strategies to enhance both competition and opportunities in the market.
Also speaking at the event was a Partner at PwC, Mary Iwelumo. She stated that the study aims to analyse the structure and operations of the collocation and infrastructure sharing segment of the telecoms market, draw out insights and advise the Commission on necessary regulatory interventions required. The study is expected to be concluded before the end of July.