The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a 45-day grace period for telecommunications companies to regularise any changes made to their ownership structures without first obtaining regulatory clearance.

The directive targets licensed operators that have modified more than 10 per cent of their shareholding or control in breach of existing licence conditions.

According to the commission, the initiative is aimed at promoting greater transparency and reinforcing effective regulatory supervision within the telecommunications industry.

The NCC stated that the notice is based on Regulations 41, 42 and 43 of the 2019 Licensing Regulations, which mandate operators to secure the commission’s consent before carrying out any substantial alteration in ownership or control.

The commission emphasised that adherence to these rules is essential for safeguarding the stability, credibility and orderly development of the sector.

In announcing the compliance window, the NCC noted that operators would not face penalties for previous violations, provided they regularise their status within the 45-day period.

It explained that the temporary waiver is intended to encourage affected companies to voluntarily align with regulatory requirements.

However, the commission cautioned that once the grace period elapses, it will commence firm enforcement measures.

It added that defaulting operators would be sanctioned in line with the Nigerian Communications Enforcement Processes Regulations 2019.

The NCC also revealed that the directive was issued pursuant to the powers conferred on it by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.