New reforms aimed at enhancing tariff transparency in the telecommunication industry will soon be rolled by the Nigerian Communication Commission
As a result of these reforms which will be coming up any moment from now, telecom operators would be expected to provide consumers with clear, easily accessible tables outlining tariff plans, billing rates, and the terms and conditions associated with their services.
The Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, disclosed this while speaking at the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament in Abuja.
He stated that the initiative was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to address consumer concerns over data usage and billing complexities, which have been prevalent in the industry.
According to DataReportal, there are now over five billion internet users worldwide, with Nigeria alone accounting for 132 million connections.
Nigerians spend an average of four hours and 20 minutes on social media daily, exceeding the global average, underscoring how deeply embedded digital interaction is in their lives.
In 2024, Nigeria’s daily data usage averaged 336 gigabytes per second, a 39 per cent increase from the previous year – a testament to the data-driven lifestyle many Nigerians lead.
Despite this digital immersion, many Nigerian consumers feel their data depletes faster than expected, a sentiment often echoed across the nation.
“In addition, to address tariff complexity, the NCC issued Guidance on Tariff Simplification, requiring operators to provide clear, accessible information on data plans and pricing.
“This transparency will empower consumers to make better-informed decisions about their data usage and billing,” Maida said.
He explained that the reforms would require operators to implement this guidance, presenting consumers with tables detailing their tariff plans, billing rates, and all terms and conditions associated with the plans they subscribe to.
Earlier this year, the NCC analysed consumer complaints, revealing data depletion and billing issues as the top concerns.
In response, the regulator directed Mobile Network Operators and Internet Service Providers to conduct audits of their billing systems, which reported no major issues.
Maida reiterated that operators would be required to present all tariff plans straightforwardly, with no hidden charges or ambiguous terms.
This move is expected to increase consumer confidence and promote fairness in telecom billing practices.
In addition to tariff transparency, the NCC has focused on simplifying the process for consumers to understand how their data is being used, helping to reduce complaints about unexpected data depletion.
Through these reforms, the commission seeks to create a telecoms environment where consumers feel more informed and in control of their digital experiences.
