NCC Canvasses Smarter Data Usage At Telecoms Consumer Parliament
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has stressed the need for data transparency and consumer empowerment in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, who stated this position while speaking as a keynote speaker at the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament (TCP) held at the Communications and Digital Economy Complex Auditorium, noted the remarkable transformation of Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape over the past two decades, evolving from basic voice services to high-speed data connectivity.
While addressing the concerns of consumers over data depletion, the EVC of the NCC, said that findings by the NCC indicated that most of the depletions were as a result of advancement in technology.
Speaking on the theme; “Optimizing Data Experience: Empowering Consumers through Awareness and Transparency in a Consumer-Centric Telecom Industry,” Dr Maida emphasized the significant impact of 3G, 4G, and now 5G networks on the adoption of digital services such as social media, e-commerce, and online banking.
Maida noted that with the increasing demand for data, there is the need for billing transparency in date depletion, adding that despite advancements in technology, many consumers feel their data depletes faster than expected, adding however that transparency will empower consumers to make better informed decisions about their data usage and billing.
According to Maida; “Our analysis revealed that data depletion and billing issues are top concerns for consumers. In response, we directed Mobile Network Operators and ISPs to conduct audits of their billing systems, which reported no major issues.
“However, perceptions persist due to the impact of high-resolution devices and the complexity of operator tariffs,” he said.
The NCC boss further said that with the advent of 4G and 5G networks, as well as devices with ultra-high-definition screens, data consumption has naturally increased, adding that for instance, viewing a photo on Instagram that might have required only 100 kilobytes of data five years ago can now consume between two to four megabytes due to advanced camera resolutions.
Maid said; “Streaming platforms like YouTube can consume about 3.5 to 5.4 gigabytes per hour, further contributing to data depletion concerns.
“To tackle these challenges, the NCC launched a Joint Industry Campaign on Consumer Awareness on Smarter Data Usage, aimed at educating consumers on effective data management.
“The campaign spans various media platforms, including radio, television, newspapers, and SMS, offering practical tips for managing data usage,” he said.
Maida said that in addition to these initiatives, the NCC is finalizing Major Incident Reporting Guidelines, which will require operators to inform consumers of major incidents impacting their networks.
He said that the Commission is also working on coverage maps detailing operators’ network strength across the country in order to allow consumers to make more informed choices when
Maida reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to transparency and accountability within the sector, saying; “Our goal is to create a truly consumer-centric telecom industry, where consumers feel valued, informed, empowered, and satisfied with the services they receive”.
The 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament provided a platform for open and honest dialogue, with stakeholders discussing ways to optimize the data experience for telecom consumers in the country.
