Value Added Services and Aggregator Framework (Amended)
Framework · Trade
A Framework governs value-added service providers and content aggregators on telecommunications platforms in Nigeria. It targets providers, aggregators, mobile operators, and subscribers to enforce consumer protection and revenue sharing standards. This creates a fair environment for legitimate services while preventing deceptive practices.
Value Added Services and Aggregator Framework (Amended)
What Is This Policy?
A regulatory framework governing Value Added Service (VAS) providers and content aggregators operating on telecommunications platforms in Nigeria, addressing consumer protection, revenue sharing, and content standards.
Who Does It Target?
Value Added Service providers Content aggregators operating on mobile networks Mobile network operators hosting VAS Telecommunications subscribers receiving VAS
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Protect consumers from unsolicited or deceptive value-added services while creating a fair and transparent environment for legitimate VAS providers and aggregators to operate on mobile platforms.
Key Features
Consumer Consent: Mandatory double opt-in before activating any VAS subscription on a subscriber's line Pricing Transparency: Clear disclosure of charges before and during VAS subscriptions Opt-Out Mechanism: Simple and free process for subscribers to unsubscribe from any VAS Revenue Sharing: Guidelines on revenue distribution between operators, aggregators, and content providers Content Standards: Prohibitions on harmful, deceptive, or illegal content through VAS channels
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active and enforced Coverage: All mobile operators and VAS providers in Nigeria Lead Agency: NCC Enforcement: Fines and sanctions for non-compliance with consumer protection requirements
How to Access
VAS providers must comply with this framework to operate on Nigerian mobile networks. Register as a VAS provider or aggregator through mobile network operators Implement mandatory consent and opt-out mechanisms Comply with content standards and reporting requirements
Official Resources
Website: ncc.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Communications Commission, Abuja
Legal Framework
Issued under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which empowers the NCC to issue guidelines for value added services. Operates alongside the Consumer Protection Framework of the NCC, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015, the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, and the NCC Quality of Service guidelines.