NCC urges service providers to address billing transparency, data depletion

.Says Nigerians still complaining
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on telecoms service providers to address consumer concerns over data depletion and billing transparency amid growing data consumption, fueled by digital advancements.

The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, made the call, yesterday, in Abuja at the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament themed, “Optimising Data Experience: Empowering Consumers through Awareness and Transparency in a Consumer-Centric Telecom Industry.”

He noted that in 2024, Nigeria’s daily data usage averaged 336 gigabytes per second, marking a 39 per cent increase from the previous year, adding that it was a clear indication of the data-driven lifestyle many Nigerians lead.According to him, despite the development, many consumers feel their data depletes faster than expected, adding that earlier this year, NCC analysed consumer complaints, revealing data depletion and billing issues as top concerns.

Maida stated that in response, the commission directed Mobile Network Operators and ISPs to conduct audits of their billing systems, which reported no major issues.

He said: “However, perceptions persist due to two main factors, including the impact of high-resolution devices and improved technologies on data use and the complexity of operator tariffs. With the advent of 4G and 5G, as well as devices with ultra-high-definition screens, data consumption has naturally increased.

“Recognising these challenges, the Commission, in collaboration with major operators, launched a Joint Industry Campaign on Consumer Awareness on Smarter Data Usage. Our message emphasises empowering consumers with the knowledge to optimise their data usage. For example, many smartphone users may not know that their devices can track data usage and allow them to set limits on the amount of data they want to use.”

Also speaking, ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, said the demand for data has soared exponentially, adding that “We are in an era where consumers rely on data to power nearly every aspect of their lives, including homes, cars, offices, and even places of worship.