Nigeria: NCC Streamlines Telco Tariff Plans for Transparency

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has significantly reduced the number of tariff options available across mobile network operators (MNOs) to seven, streamlining the previously overwhelming array of choices.

Prior to this development, telecom operators offered up to 159 data tariff plans and 14 voice tariff options, creating a complex and opaque system for subscribers.

Simplifying Tariffs for Consumer Clarity

Speaking at a capacity-building forum for journalists at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) in Lagos, the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau at the NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, highlighted tariff simplification as a key focus of the Commission under the leadership of the Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida.

Dr. Adinde emphasized that the initiative aims to enhance transparency and consumer satisfaction by eliminating the overly complicated tariff structure in the telecommunications sector.

New Measures for Transparency

In his presentation titled “Enhancing Consumer Satisfaction,” Dr. Adinde announced that the NCC will now vet and publish existing tariffs for both voice and data services on its website, allowing subscribers to easily access and compare available plans.

Addressing Data Depletion Concerns

Dr. Adinde also addressed widespread concerns regarding data depletion, attributing much of the issue to subscriber habits and a lack of awareness rather than deliberate actions by telecom operators.

He explained:

• Many subscribers unknowingly share their mobile WiFi with family and friends, leaving networks open without securing them with passwords.
• Some users forget to change their WiFi passwords after sharing them at specific locations, allowing others to reconnect and use their data when they revisit those places.
• Modern smartphones, with high-definition capabilities and apps running in the background, consume data at a faster rate than older devices.

Tips for Conserving Data

To mitigate unnecessary data consumption, Dr. Adinde advised subscribers to:

1. Disable unnecessary apps running in the background.
2. Be mindful of streaming habits, especially on platforms like YouTube.
3. Use secure passwords for personal WiFi and update them regularly.

Breakdown of Existing Tariff Options

Dr. Adinde provided insights into the tariff structures of major operators before the reforms:

• MTN Nigeria: 159 tariffs (14 for voice, 145 for data).
• Airtel: 68 tariffs (27 for voice, 41 for data).
• Globacom: 38 tariffs (6 for voice, 32 for data).
• 9mobile: 104 tariffs (7 for voice, 97 for data).

These figures highlighted the excessive options that previously overwhelmed subscribers, prompting the NCC to act.

Consumer-Centric Focus

The NCC’s latest efforts reaffirm its commitment to creating a transparent and consumer-friendly telecom environment. The tariff simplification initiative is expected to empower subscribers, ensuring better value for money and improved service delivery in Nigeria’s telecom sector.