The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a draft guidance aimed at safeguarding unused airtime for millions of subscribers nationwide.
This move seeks to strengthen consumer protection in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving telecom sector.
Key Provisions of the Draft Guidance
– Comprehensive Audits: Telecom operators must conduct thorough audits of all inactive numbers to identify unused airtime.
– Service Alternatives: Operators are required to offer service alternatives to subscribers, utilizing unused airtime for voice, data, and value-added services.
– Consumer Education: Operators must implement education campaigns to inform subscribers about the new approach to managing unused airtime.
Ensuring Compliance
– Compliance Deadline: Operators have 90 days to meet the draft guidance’s requirements.
– Audit Reports: The NCC will review audit reports within 10 working days.
– Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply may result in fines and other regulatory actions ².
Objectives of the Draft Guidance
– Protect Consumer Rights: Safeguard subscribers’ unused airtime and prevent forfeiture.
– Promote Transparency: Establish clear procedures for managing unused airtime.
– Foster Industry Sustainability: Balance consumer protection with industry sustainability.
Next Steps
The NCC will refine the draft guidance based on stakeholder input and formally adopt it in the coming months. This development underscores the commission’s commitment to creating a fair, transparent, and consumer-centric telecommunications landscape in Nigeria.