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Nigeria tightens oversight of telecoms ownership changes, sets 10% threshold – Technology Times
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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a new regulatory requirement mandating prior approval for any ownership change involving 10% or more of the shareholding of telecommunications companies, in a move aimed at strengthening industry oversight and preventing anti-competitive practices.
Under the new directive, any proposed transfer of ownership or control of shares amounting to 10% or more of the total share capital of a company licensed by the telecoms regulator, NCC, must obtain a Letter of No Objection from the commission before the transaction can be registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
The requirement, jointly announced by the NCC and the CAC, takes immediate effect and applies not only to single transactions exceeding the 10% threshold but also to multiple share transfers that cumulatively exceed 10% of a licensee’s total share capital.
According to the two agencies, the measure is backed by Section 90 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, Regulation 28(2) of the Competition Practices Regulations 2007, and Regulation 42 of the Licensing Regulations 2019, all of which empower the NCC to review transactions affecting its licensees and promote fair competition within the communications sector.
The requirement, jointly announced by the NCC and the CAC, takes immediate effect and applies not only to single transactions exceeding the 10% threshold but also to multiple share transfers that cumulatively exceed 10% of a licensee’s total share capital.
Telecoms share transfers over 10% now need NCC approval
The NCC and CAC say the new framework is designed to ensure that significant ownership changes in telecom companies do not undermine competition, market stability or regulatory oversight.
“Effective immediately any proposed transfer of ownership or control of shares in a licensee of the Nigerian Communications Commission, amounting to ten percent (10%) or more of the total share capital, as well as any series of share transfers which in aggregate exceed ten percent (10%) of the total share capital of the Licensee shall require a Letter of No Objection from NCC in order for the changes to be effected and registered with the CAC,” the agencies said.
As part of the arrangement, the CAC will verify that any request submitted by a telecommunications company for the registration of ownership changes involving 10% or more of its shareholding is accompanied by evidence of the NCC’s prior approval.
The agencies said the requirement is intended to close potential regulatory gaps that could permit substantial changes in the ownership and control of telecommunications companies without the knowledge or review of the sector regulator.
According to the two agencies, the measure will help preserve a fair and competitive market structure by preventing both direct and indirect anti-competitive practices.
Why the 10% telecoms threshold matters
Ownership structures remain a critical aspect of telecommunications regulation because substantial share acquisitions can influence strategic decisions, board composition, corporate governance and, in some cases, control of critical communications infrastructure.
By formally setting a 10% approval threshold, the NCC is effectively increasing its visibility over significant changes in the ownership and control of licensed operators before such transactions receive legal recognition.
Nigeria’s telecommunications sector remains one of the country’s most strategic industries, serving millions of subscribers while supporting digital services, fintech platforms, government operations and business communications.
As of April 2026, the Nigeria telecommunications market accounted for over 188 million active phone lines with teledensity, the number of active telephone connections per 100 inhabitants living within an area rising to 86.73%.
The nation’s active internet connections also peaked at 154.7 million, with broadband accounting for over 120.6 million, representing 55.67% of the data service within the period, according to NCC statistics.
The latest directive builds on existing provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act and the NCC’s competition regulations, which have long empowered the regulator to scrutinise transactions involving licensed operators, the telecoms regulator says.
“The requirement,” the agencies stated, “is designed to preserve a fair and competitive market structure within the communications sector by preventing direct or indirect anti-competitive practices, while strengthening regulatory oversight of significant changes in ownership and control. It will further promote transparency, investor confidence and regulatory certainty and safeguard the long-term sustainability and stability of the industry.”
New framework links regulatory approval to corporate registration
The Commission has previously exercised such powers in major industry transactions. One of the most notable examples was MTN Nigeria’s acquisition of Visafone in 2016, when the NCC approved the transfer of Visafone’s shareholding to MTN while clarifying that the approval related to the ownership transaction, and not the transfer of the telecoms licence itself.
The NCC’s Competition Practices Regulations 2007 and subsequent licensing regulations have also provided mechanisms for reviewing transactions that could affect competition, market concentration or control of communications licensees.
However, the latest arrangement marks a significant enforcement milestone by creating a direct link between regulatory approval and corporate registration.
Under the new framework, the Corporate Affairs Commission will not register ownership changes involving 10% or more of a telecom licensee’s shareholding unless evidence of the NCC’s prior approval is presented.
The measure effectively gives the telecoms regulator greater oversight of significant ownership changes before they are legally recognised.
Over the years, the NCC has exercised its powers to review mergers, acquisitions and other transactions involving licensed operators to ensure that market concentration does not harm competition or consumer interests.
The latest directive expands that oversight by establishing a formal approval threshold tied specifically to ownership changes and requiring closer coordination between the communications regulator and the country’s corporate registry.
NCC, CAC say new telecoms rule will boost transparency, investor confidence
The NCC and CAC said the new requirement would also improve investor confidence by providing greater regulatory certainty around transactions involving licensed telecom operators.
“The requirement,” the agencies stated, “is designed to preserve a fair and competitive market structure within the communications sector by preventing direct or indirect anti-competitive practices, while strengthening regulatory oversight of significant changes in ownership and control. It will further promote transparency, investor confidence and regulatory certainty and safeguard the long-term sustainability and stability of the industry.”
Reaffirming their commitment to industry development, both agencies said they would continue to work closely to advance a transparent, stable and competitive business environment for the communications sector.
“The NCC and the CAC reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing a transparent, stable, and competitive business environment in Nigeria. Both agencies will continue to work closely to promote regulatory certainty, ensure fair market practices, and support the orderly and sustainable development of Nigeria’s Communications Sector.”
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“Glasgow Has Shown What Nigeria Can Achieve When We Invest in Our Athletes—Now We Must Take That Success Back to the Grassroots” — SSA Adeboye
…Presidential Aide Congratulates Team Nigeria on Historic Commonwealth Games Campaign, Says First in Africa Finish Signals a New Era for Nigerian Sports
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has congratulated Team Nigeria on its outstanding performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, describing the country’s historic campaign as a defining moment in the ongoing transformation of Nigerian sports under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Games in Glasgow, where he joined the leadership of the National Sports Commission in supporting Team Nigeria throughout the competition, Hon. Adeboye said the country’s achievement of finishing seventh overall, first in Africa, with 10 gold, 7 silver and 7 bronze medals, was a reflection of strategic leadership, improved athlete welfare, quality preparation and renewed national ambition.
“Glasgow has shown what Nigeria can achieve when we invest in our athletes. Now, we must take that success back to the grassroots. Every medal won here is a reminder that somewhere in our schools, communities and local government areas are thousands of young Nigerians with the potential to become future Commonwealth, Olympic and world champions.”
The Presidential aide noted that beyond the medal count, Team Nigeria’s performances demonstrated that the country is building a broader and more sustainable sporting culture, with podium finishes recorded across athletics, para athletics, para powerlifting, weightlifting and judo.
He described the emergence of young stars and the breaking of long-standing records as evidence that Nigeria is entering a new era where excellence is being driven by deliberate planning rather than chance.
According to Hon. Adeboye, the Games will be remembered for the courage and resilience displayed by athletes who not only won medals but also rewrote history through world records, national milestones and breakthrough performances.
“This has been more than a successful Commonwealth Games campaign. It has been a statement to the world that Nigerian sports is rising again. Our athletes have shown courage, discipline and character, while proving that with the right support they can compete with the very best anywhere in the world.”
The SSA particularly commended athletes who made history during the Games, including those who won Commonwealth titles, broke world records, ended decades-long medal droughts and inspired millions of Nigerians through exceptional performances.
He noted that the achievements of athletes such as Samuel Ogazi, Ezekiel Nathaniel, Goodness Nwachukwu, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, Temitope Adeshina, Jessica Oji, Kayinsola Ajayi, Udodi Onwuzurike, Ella Onojuvwevwo, Ruth Usoro, Enku Ekuta, and the country’s relay teams have demonstrated the enormous depth of talent available in Nigeria.
Hon. Adeboye also applauded the leadership of the National Sports Commission, under the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for introducing athlete-focused reforms that have transformed Team Nigeria’s preparation and performance.
He said initiatives such as improved training programmes, enhanced welfare packages and instant financial rewards for medal-winning athletes have created a winning culture that is already delivering tangible results on the international stage.
“The success recorded in Glasgow did not happen overnight. It is the product of visionary leadership, careful planning, proper athlete preparation and a renewed commitment to excellence. The National Sports Commission deserves commendation for creating an environment where Nigerian athletes can focus on achieving greatness.”
The Presidential aide reaffirmed that the next phase of Nigeria’s sporting development must be centred on grassroots sports, stressing that sustained international success can only be achieved by strengthening the talent pipeline from schools and local communities.
He disclosed that his office remains committed to implementing programmes that will expand grassroots sports infrastructure, revive school sports, strengthen talent identification and create opportunities for young athletes across all 774 Local Government Areas of the country.
According to him, the success of Team Nigeria in Glasgow should serve as a catalyst for increased collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, sports federations, educational institutions and development partners.
“Our assignment does not end in Glasgow. This success must inspire us to work even harder to ensure that every gifted Nigerian child has access to facilities, quality coaching and opportunities to compete. That is how we will sustain this momentum and build a lasting sporting legacy for future generations.”
Hon. Adeboye further thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigerian sports through the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the restoration of the National Sports Commission has already begun to produce measurable results.
He expressed confidence that the performances witnessed in Glasgow would mark the beginning of even greater achievements for Nigerian sports on the continental and global stage.
“Finishing as Africa’s number one nation at the Commonwealth Games is a remarkable achievement, but it should also challenge us to aim even higher. With sustained investment, stronger grassroots development and continued support for our athletes, Nigeria can become one of the world’s leading sporting nations.”
As Team Nigeria returns home with 24 medals and the distinction of being Africa’s highest-ranked nation at Glasgow 2026, Hon. Adeboye urged Nigerians to celebrate the athletes and continue supporting the reforms that are laying the foundation for a brighter future for Nigerian sports.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has clarified that the smoke observed at Terminal 2 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on Sunday was not caused by a fire but by the discharge of the terminal’s fire suppression system.
The clarification came hours after the authority initially announced that a fire incident had occurred at the terminal, prompting an emergency response and raising concerns among passengers and airport users.
In its first statement, FAAN said a fire had broken out at Terminal 2 and disclosed that its Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Service (ARFFS) had been deployed to contain the situation.
“The FAAN Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Service is currently responding to the incident and working diligently to contain the situation,” the authority said, adding that no casualties or loss of life had been recorded.
The announcement triggered emergency response measures at the airport before FAAN issued a fresh update later in the day, clarifying the nature of the incident.
According to the authority, preliminary investigations showed there was no fire at the terminal.
“Preliminary findings indicate that there was no fire at the terminal. The smoke observed within the affected area resulted from the discharge of the terminal’s FM-200 fire suppression system. The reason for the activation of the fire suppression system is currently being investigated,” FAAN said.
The authority added that normal operations had resumed at the terminal while investigations continue to determine what triggered the fire suppression system.
“Normal operations have since resumed at the terminal, while detailed investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident,” it added.
Any report of fire or smoke at an airport automatically triggers emergency response procedures due to the potential risks to passengers, aircraft, and critical airport infrastructure.
FAAN also thanked passengers, airlines, airport users and other stakeholders for their understanding and reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of airport operations.
Comes five months after a major fire incident at the airport
Although a fire did not cause Sunday’s incident, it came barely five months after a major blaze at the airport’s international terminal disrupted flight operations and damaged critical aviation infrastructure.
In February, PREMIUM TIMES reported that a fire at Terminal 1 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport forced the temporary closure of the Lagos airfield, causing flight delays and diversions as emergency responders battled the blaze.
The incident left six people injured, while 14 people trapped inside the control tower were rescued. It also damaged critical infrastructure, including weather equipment belonging to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
Following the February incident, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced plans to demolish the ageing Terminal 1 after describing the damage as extensive. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria also ordered a comprehensive structural audit of the affected facility ahead of reconstruction.
READ ALSO: FAAN unveils 2025 bye-laws
While Sunday’s incident was quickly resolved without injuries or significant disruption to flight operations, it has renewed attention on the resilience of critical infrastructure and emergency preparedness at Nigeria’s busiest aviation gateway, coming just five months after the February fire.
The Murtala Muhammed International Airport is Nigeria’s busiest aviation gateway, handling millions of domestic and international passengers annually.
FAAN said investigations are continuing to determine why the FM-200 fire suppression system was activated and promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
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