NCC Pledges Improved Service Quality, Transparency in Telecom Sector
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving service quality, transparency, and consumer protection in the telecommunications industry.
Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, where he outlined key strategies being deployed to strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance consumer experience.
According to him, the measures, which focus on information disclosure, corporate governance, and consumer protection—are designed to boost service delivery and accountability among telecom operators.
Maida revealed that the Commission will soon publish a public network performance map, based on aggregated data from consumers across the country.
“By the end of this month or early September, we are going to release a public map for network performance. This will allow consumers to compare service providers, make informed choices, and hold operators accountable,” he said.
The NCC boss also underscored the role of corporate governance in driving industry performance, noting that operators with stronger governance structures record better financial results, service delivery, and regulatory compliance.
On consumer protection, Maida disclosed that the Commission is tackling the three most common complaints from subscribers: poor quality of service (QoS), data depletion concerns, and failed top-up transactions.
To address these, he said the NCC is revising its QoS guidelines and has partnered with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to standardise mobile recharge and top-up processes.
“We found that failed top-ups were caused by the absence of standardised operations. Working with the CBN, a joint task force has developed a framework now under review,” he explained.
On the controversy over fast-depleting data, Maida clarified that independent audits conducted by PwC and KPMG found no evidence of systemic data theft by telecom operators. Instead, complex and confusing tariff structures were identified as the major issue.
“Consequently, the NCC has released a tariff simplification guideline to ensure greater transparency for consumers,” he added.
Maida further disclosed that recent tariff adjustments have spurred new investments in the sector.
“The investments have started, and equipment is already arriving. We are monitoring closely to ensure these translate into better quality of service,” he assured.
Also speaking at the session, Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at the NCC, emphasised the Commission’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the media.
“Constant engagement with the media is key to regulatory efficiency. I encourage journalists to use our website and reach out directly to our leadership with questions or concerns,they will be addressed,” she said.