Telecom Parliament: NCC Opens Up On Plan For More Transparent Data Tariff

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced new guidelines aimed at simplifying tariffs, requiring telecom operators to provide clear and accessible information on data plans and pricing.

The initiative’s primary goal is to equip consumers with the necessary knowledge to make informed choices about their data usage and billing, ensuring better transparency regarding available options and costs.

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, unveiled the new initiative at the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament in Abuja, which was themed “Optimizing Data Experience: Empowering Consumers through Awareness and Transparency in a Consumer-Centric Telecom Industry.” During the event, Dr. Maida emphasized that, in the coming months, telecom operators will be required to present detailed tariff tables, including billing rates and terms and conditions, making it easier for consumers to compare and choose the best options for their needs.

Highlighting the growing significance of consumer empowerment, Dr. Maida pointed out the shifting dynamics of digital consumption. He noted that with the introduction of 4G and 5G networks and the rise of high-resolution devices, data consumption has surged. For example, an Instagram photo that used to consume just 100 kilobytes of data five years ago now requires between 2 to 4 megabytes. Dr. Maida further explained that an hour of browsing Instagram could use around 600 megabytes of data, while streaming YouTube could consume between 3.5 and 5.4 gigabytes per hour.

This increase in digital consumption has contributed to rising data costs, as more consumers shift their focus from traditional television to smartphones and tablets for streaming. Dr. Maida referenced recent studies indicating a global decline of over 8% in traditional television viewing over the past year, with more time now spent on mobile devices and smart TVs.

To address these challenges, the NCC, in partnership with key telecom operators, has launched a Joint Industry Campaign to raise consumer awareness about smarter data usage. This campaign, which will be broadcast across various media platforms including radio, television, and SMS, aims to educate consumers on efficient data management strategies.

While acknowledging the progress, Dr. Maida also recognized the ongoing challenges faced by the sector, such as the theft and vandalism of telecom infrastructure, which affects service delivery and raises operational costs for operators.

Nevertheless, he reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to fostering a consumer-centric telecom industry, where consumers feel valued, informed, and empowered. “Our goal is to create a truly consumer-centric telecom industry,” Dr. Maida concluded, emphasizing the Commission’s vision of a responsive and transparent telecom sector.

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