NCC mandates telcos to improve transparency on call, data charges
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued new guidance requiring telecom operators to provide clear and detailed information to subscribers about how they are being charged for calls and data usage.
The directive, titled ‘Guidance for the Simplification of Tariffs,’ aims to enhance transparency, improve consumer understanding, and promote fair competition among telecom providers.
This move comes in response to growing complaints from subscribers about rapid data depletion and unexpected airtime exhaustion.
The NCC’s guidance, effective from July 29, 2024, mandates that telecom operators fully disclose all tariff components and conditions. They must ensure that marketing and promotional materials are clear and easily understood.
The NCC requires operators to publish comprehensive tariff information on their websites, including a table detailing the characteristics of each tariff plan and bundle, allowing subscribers to compare options and make informed choices.
Additionally, when subscribers check their account balance via *310#, the response must include detailed information about their current plan, including rates for calls, data, and SMS.
The guidance also urges telecom operators to prioritize consumer education and transparency, ensuring that subscribers are fully informed about their choices.
Operators are required to develop and submit migration plans to smoothly transition subscribers to new, simplified tariff plans without losing service quality or benefits.
All promotional offers must receive prior approval from the NCC and be presented as standalone products with clear terms and validity periods.
The commission has set a deadline of December 3, 2024, for operators to phase out existing bonus-led tariff plans and migrate subscribers to the new simplified plans.
The NCC’s move comes amid concerns that inadequate information, particularly about data usage, is contributing to widespread complaints.
The commission has also directed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct independent audits of their billing systems to address these issues.
This effort is part of the NCC’s broader commitment to enhancing transparency and consumer protection in the telecom sector.
