- The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced new QoS regulations with specific standards for 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, focusing on aspects like drop call rates, call setup success rates, and traffic congestion.
- These regulations come with penalties of up to N5 million per violation, with additional daily fines until the issue is resolved. The NCC is also taking a more localized approach to monitoring service quality, gathering data at community levels to identify areas needing improvement.
- The new regulations are a response to the service quality goals set by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and signal a return to stricter enforcement by the NCC, which had previously been less active in imposing penalties despite widespread complaints about poor service quality.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has taken a firm stance on telecom service quality, issuing new regulations designed to enforce stricter standards and improve the customer experience.
The QoS Regulations 2024 outline specific benchmarks for network services, including drop call rates, call setup success rates, and traffic congestion, with penalties of up to N5 million for each violation. The NCC is also shifting its approach from national-level analysis to a more granular, community-focused approach, gathering data to identify specific areas requiring improvement.
These new regulations are likely a direct response to the service quality goals set by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. His Strategic Agenda 2023 includes ambitious targets such as achieving a 50% improvement in telecom service quality by year-end and boosting broadband penetration to 70% by 2025.
This move signifies a return to stricter enforcement by the NCC, a departure from its previous less-active approach despite widespread consumer complaints. The last major action by the commission was in 2020 when Airtel faced a N2.3 billion fine for disconnecting a smaller operator.
The timing of these regulations is notable, as telecom operators are grappling with financial challenges stemming from currency devaluation and inflation. Operators have argued that tariff increases are necessary to maintain and improve service quality. Whether the NCC’s enforcement will lead to tangible improvements or further strain already pressured operators remains to be seen. However, this latest move signals a commitment from the NCC to prioritize consumer experience and ensure a higher quality of service across the country.
What you should know
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is the independent regulatory body responsible for overseeing the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. Established in 2003, the NCC plays a vital role in ensuring a thriving and competitive telecoms market that benefits both businesses and consumers.
The NCC’s primary responsibilities include licensing and regulating telecommunications operators, promoting the development of the industry, and safeguarding the interests of consumers. They strive to create a favorable environment for investment, encourage innovation, and promote the growth of the digital economy.
The NCC works to ensure quality of service (QoS) for consumers, addresses issues like network congestion and call drops, and promotes fair competition among operators. They also play a critical role in advocating for universal access to telecommunications services, particularly in underserved areas.
With a focus on building a robust and sustainable telecoms sector, the NCC plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of communication in Nigeria, fostering growth, and connecting communities across the country.
