Headlines
NCC implements Accounting Separation Framework in telecoms industry
Nasiru Yusuf
The Nigerian Communications Commissions (NCC) NCC has commenced the implementation of the Accounting Separation Framework (ASF) in the Nigerian telecoms industry effective from July 15.
Kano Focus reports that the program is to ensure transparency and accountability in regard to effective regulation and prevention of anti-competitive behavior.
A statement sent to Kano Focus by the commission’s Director, Public Affairs, Ikechukwu Adinde said NCC is committed to the creation of an enabling environment for competition among operators in the industry to ensure the provision of qualitative and efficient telecoms services as stipulated in Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003.
According to the statement, the policy document, “Determination on the Implementation of an Accounting Separation Framework for the Nigerian Telecoms Industry”, which was developed via a consultative process in 2015, has undergone a comprehensive review by the regulator in collaboration with telecoms licensees and other critical industry stakeholders.
Senate confirms reappointment of Danbatta as NCC Boss
NCC resolves 98% consumer complaints in 15 months
NCC chairs broadband implementation committee
The statement said with the commencement of the implementation of the framework, telecoms licensees are, henceforth, obligated to submit their Regulatory Financial Statement (RFS) to the Commission in line with the new ASF, within seven months after the end of the licensees’ financial year.
Umar Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC expressed optimism about the framework noting that “the new ASF will promote an industry environment that fosters open and transparent financial reporting, while ensuring that charges for telecom services are cost-based and non-discriminatory.”
The Commission, however, stated that submission of RFS in line with the new framework, is currently limited to and mandatory for only six telecom licensees, adding that this will subsist for an initial period of two years after which the regulator may review the list to include other operators.
The six licensees include Airtel Nigeria, MTN Nigeria, Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services Limited (9Mobile), Globacom Nigeria, Main One Cable Company Limited and IHS Nigeria.
Adducing reasons for limiting compliance to six operators for now, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Umar Garba Danbatta, said the decision was taken to ensure necessary structure is in place for reviewing and analysing the accounts before applying the new framework to all licensees in the industry.
Mr Danbatta, however, stated that any other licensee willing to prepare its financial statements in line with the new framework is allowed to voluntarily do so, just as he said the Commission may exercise its discretion to demand that a licensee prepare and submit separated account where it is determined that the activities of such a service provider are deemed critical to the overall well-being of the Nigerian telecoms industry.
“Therefore, for full and effective implementation of the Framework, every operator under the ambit of accounting separation is required to prepare an Operator-specific Accounting Separation Manual (OASM) containing policies, principles, methodologies and procedures for accounting and cost allocation, which must be submitted to the Commission on or before October 30, 2020 for regulatory approval.
“Licensees shall also be required to prepare their financial and non-financial reports in line with the Guidelines for the ASF while reports shall be furnished by the licensees for every account year beginning from the 2020 financial year end.
“Also, as part of operators’ licensing conditions, the Commission requires licensees to prepare, in respect of each complete financial year or of such lesser periods as may be specified, separated accounting statements for all their activities,” the statement said.
According to Danbatta, the Commission considers the Accounting Separation Framework “as an effective, least evasive and less costly solution to implement to meet its regulatory objectives”, adding that the implementation of the Framework is also a key deliverable for the Commission in the new National Broadband Plan (NBP), 2020-2025.”
The EVC added that the Commission took into consideration the inputs from industry stakeholders and has provided capacity-building for operators and for relevant staff of the Commission to ensure seamless implementation of the Framework.
Mr Danbatta further reiterated the commitment of the Commission towards continually developing policies, initiatives and programmes aimed at boosting healthy competition among telecoms operators in the country to ensure that consumers continue to enjoy efficient and affordable telecom services.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has commenced a preliminary investigation into allegations linking a person reportedly identified as one of its students to acts of online impersonation and financial misconduct circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, on behalf of the Registrar, the university said it had taken note of the claims being discussed in public commentary and across various online platforms.
The statement noted that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline, and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies, adding that any behaviour capable of bringing the name and reputation of the institution into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.
According to the university, the alleged actions of an individual student should not be seen as a reflection of the values or character of Bayero University Kano as an institution.
“In view of the allegations, the University has commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the matter. The appropriate University authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” the statement said.
The management also commended the public-spirited efforts of Professor Farooq Kperogi and other individuals who provide financial assistance to students in need, particularly by supporting registration fees and other educational expenses.
The university noted that such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students.
BUK assured members of the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and relevant laws.
The institution also urged the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the spread of unverified information.
Ibrahim Khalil
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has relieved the State Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect.
KANO FOCUS reports that the development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the decision forms part of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to reposition the state civil service for greater efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the service of Kano State during his tenure.
“We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the governor said.
The governor also directed that Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, should serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to hand over the affairs of the office to the acting Head of Service no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Board Chairman of Belraados Limited and Kano State Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, on Saturday met with the former President of Brazil, Mr. Michel Temer, during the opening dinner of the 26th Expodireto Cotrijal in Brazil.
KANO FOCUS reports that Dr. Umar was seen exchanging a handshake with the former Brazilian leader at the event held in Não-Me-Toque, a city in the southern part of Brazil hosting the annual international agribusiness exhibition.
The Expodireto Cotrijal is one of the largest agricultural trade fairs in Latin America, attracting policymakers, agribusiness investors, researchers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Participants at the event are expected to explore partnerships and share ideas aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening international cooperation in agribusiness.
BUK probes student over alleged Facebook fraud
Gov. Yusuf relieves Kano Head of Service of appointment
Disabled student seeks urgent fix for faulty elevator at Northwest University Kano
Resident raises concern over rising lawlessness, poor urban planning in Kano
Kwaru Foundation Provides Free Eye Care to Over 1,100 Residents in Kano
Lami Maccido, first person to appear on screens of NTA Kano, CTV 67, dies at 72
Kwaru Foundation Provides Free Eye Care to Over 1,100 Residents in Kano
K-SAFE commends Kano for timely school census, inclusion of non-formal education data
Kano to distribute 16,906 desks to primary schools in 13 LGAs
