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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has cleared Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) of any wrongdoing in relation to complaints of data depletion and incorrect billing, stating that no substantial issues were found regarding these allegations.
Telecom consumers have long voiced concerns to the Commission about excessive data consumption and erroneous charges. However, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, explained that a thorough audit was conducted on billing and data usage mechanisms, revealing that subscribers were not being unfairly charged.
While addressing the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament (TCP) at the Digital Economy Complex in Mbora, Abuja, Dr. Maida acknowledged the macro-economic challenges and the rising costs of doing business in Nigeria, which are making it difficult to secure further investments in the telecommunications sector.
He attributed the data depletion and billing complaints to the increased use of high-resolution devices and advanced technologies, along with the complexities of operator tariffs. He explained, “The impact of high-resolution devices and improved technologies on data usage has led to higher consumption, as well as the complexity of billing mechanisms.”
Dr. Maida pointed to global trends, stating, “Currently, there are over 5 billion internet users worldwide, with Nigeria alone accounting for 132 million internet connections. Nigerians spend an average of 4 hours and 20 minutes daily on social media—much higher than the global average—demonstrating how digital interaction has become deeply embedded in daily life.”
He also noted a significant rise in data usage, with Nigeria’s daily data consumption averaging 336 gigabytes per second in 2024, a 39% increase compared to the previous year. “This increase reflects the data-driven lifestyle many Nigerians now lead,” he added.
Explaining the impact of advanced technologies, Dr. Maida stated, “With the advent of 4G, 5G, and devices featuring ultra-high-definition screens, data consumption has surged. For example, while a photo viewed on Instagram five years ago consumed only about 100 kilobytes of data, today it can consume 2 to 4 megabytes due to higher camera resolutions.”
Dr. Maida highlighted how time spent on popular platforms leads to greater data usage. “Spending an hour on Instagram can use up to 600 megabytes of data, while streaming videos on platforms like YouTube can consume between 3.5 to 5.4 gigabytes per hour,” he added.
Looking ahead, Dr. Maida revealed that in the coming months, MNOs will present clear, detailed tables for consumers showing their tariff plans, billing rates, and all related terms and conditions. This initiative is aimed at improving transparency and providing subscribers with a better understanding of service charges.
Additionally, consumers will soon be able to access coverage maps showing operators’ network strengths, coverage gaps, service quality, and signal strength, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their telecom services.
Dr. Maida reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to continuing its sensitization campaigns on data depletion and alleged billing errors in collaboration with other stakeholders to ensure consumers get value for their money.
To address the industry’s sustainability concerns, Dr. Maida noted that the NCC is working with other government agencies and stakeholders to mitigate the challenges posed by high business costs.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ATCON), stressed the need for an increase in telecom tariff prices to ensure the industry’s sustainability. He described the current situation as critical, citing not only pricing issues but also the persistent vandalism of telecom infrastructure across the country as further challenges.
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