The Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC ) said that MTN has paid N165 billion out of the N330 billion fine imposed on it due to its inability to disconnect improperly registered SIM cards.
Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC said this on Monday in Abuja when MTN Group, led by its Chairman in Nigeria, Dr Pascal Dozie visited the commission.
Recall that, In October 2015, NCC had imposed a fine of N1.04 trillion on MTN Nigeria for not complying with government’s rule on deactivation of unregistered SIM cards and also for not disconnecting about 5.1 million improperly registered lines in its network within the stipulated deadline.
After several negotiations including diplomatic intervention by the South African government, NCC reduced the fine to N330billion.
MTN initially made a commitment payment of N50billion to the government while the remaining balance of N280 billion was to be paid in 6 tranches in accordance with the agreements between the regulator (NCC) and MTN.
The NCC boss, Danbatta said: “I am happy to inform you that our agreement with MTN on how and when to pay the fine has been adhered to.
“Just last month, March, we received a cheque of N55billion from MTN as part of the fine payment plan.
“This brought the total fine paid by MTN Nigeria to N165billion, that is, more than half of the fine
“It is a whopping sum of money and they have not defaulted and these payments they are making is consistent with the terms of agreement we reached with them. ‘’
Danbatta also stated that the payment by installment was in line with the terms of agreement reached between MTN and the regulatory body and that the fine is aimed at ensuring that the rules of engagement are respected.
