The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set December 13, 2024, as the official release date for its new, streamlined tariff plan aimed at reducing the complexity of telecom offerings. This announcement, made in Abuja on Thursday by Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, highlights the commission’s dedication to improving transparency and ensuring fair competition in the telecommunications industry.
Speaking through Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs, Maida disclosed that the new plan was originally scheduled for release on October 27 but was delayed to allow stakeholders more time to finalize the details. “On December 13, 2024, a new tariff plan will be announced against the old date of October 27, as announced. We have gotten stakeholders to make inputs,” he said.
Reducing Complexity in Tariff Plans
Under the new directive, operators will be limited to a maximum of seven tariff and promotional plans. According to the NCC, this restriction aims to simplify the multitude of tariff options available to consumers, protect their interests, and foster a healthier competitive environment among telecom providers.
Maida explained that this measure would bring relief to telecom users by eliminating confusion about data and airtime usage. “At the end of completing the exercise, a limit has been given to the operators. With this, no operator is expected to have more than seven tariff plans. We believe that this measure will bring some kind of relief to telecom consumers and will eliminate misconceptions on the use of data and airtime,” he stated.
The NCC has also been proactive in raising public awareness about the upcoming changes. Through advertisements and advocacy campaigns, the commission has been educating consumers on how the simplified plans will benefit them.
Addressing Data Depletion Complaints
In response to widespread consumer complaints about rapid data depletion, Maida assured the public that the NCC had conducted thorough investigations into the issue. He highlighted that data usage varies across different devices, particularly Android smartphones, and urged consumers to be more informed about their data consumption habits.
“What consumers must know is that usage of data is not the same on every Android phone. As a consumer-centric regulator, the commission has embarked on public awareness on this for consumers to have a better understanding of their data depletion,” he said.
To ensure transparency, the NCC has mandated telecom operators to engage reputable audit firms to examine and address concerns related to data consumption.
Promoting Fairness and Competition
The new tariff framework aligns with the NCC’s broader mission to create a consumer-friendly and competitive telecommunications landscape. By reducing the number of tariff options and enhancing clarity, the commission aims to build trust among consumers while enabling operators to focus on delivering quality services.
Telecom operators across Nigeria and Africa are expected to align their operations with the new guidelines to remain competitive in the evolving market. As December 13 approaches, the NCC continues its efforts to ensure a smooth transition for operators and consumers alike. The move is a clear indication of the NCC’s commitment to fostering a robust telecom ecosystem, safeguarding consumer interests, and promoting fair competition across the sector.
