Nigeria’s telecom regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has thrown down the gauntlet to licensees who’ve quietly shuffled more than 10% of their shareholding without approval.
Starting December 17, 2025, they’ve got just 45 days to straighten things out, or risk heavy penalties.
Drawing on its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, the NCC posted the ultimatum on its website (www.ncc.gov.ng). Affected companies can breathe easy during this grace period, with no fines for past slip-ups exceeding the 10% threshold.
But the clock is ticking. Once the window slams shut, after 45 days grace period, the NCC vows swift enforcement under the Nigerian Communications (Enforcement Processes, etc.) Regulations, 2019.
Defaulting operators, brace yourselves—sanctions are coming fast.
This move aims to tighten oversight in the fast-evolving telecom sector, ensuring all major ownership shifts get the green light first.
The telecoms regulatory agency further stated that the notice was issued pursuant to Regulations 41, 42 and 43 of the Licensing Regulations, 2019, which require licensees to obtain prior approval from the Commission before effecting significant changes in ownership or control.
Industry observers noted that the directive underscored the NCC’s renewed focus on regulatory compliance, transparency, and corporate governance within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The licensees were therefore advised to promptly engage with the Commission to regularise their shareholding structures and avoid penalties once the grace period lapses.
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