NCC introduces new rules for telecom operators to improve transparency in tariffs

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued new guidance requiring telecom operators to provide clear and detailed information about charges for calls and data usage.

The directive, titled ‘Guidance for the Simplification of Tariffs,’ aims to enhance transparency, improve consumer understanding, and foster fair competition among telecom providers.

Effective from July 29, 2024, the guidance mandates telecom operators to fully disclose all tariff components and conditions. Marketing and promotional materials must be clear and comprehensible.

Operators are also required to publish comprehensive tariff details on their websites, including a table outlining the characteristics of each plan and bundle, enabling subscribers to make informed choices.

Additionally, when checking their account balance via *310#, subscribers must receive detailed information about their current plan, including rates for calls, data, and SMS.

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The NCC’s guidance emphasizes the importance of consumer education and transparency, urging operators to prioritize these aspects and develop plans to transition subscribers smoothly to new, simplified tariff structures by December 3, 2024. Existing bonus-led tariff plans must be phased out by this date.

The new rules address growing concerns about rapid data depletion and unexpected airtime exhaustion, which have led to widespread complaints.

The NCC has also instructed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct independent audits of their billing systems as part of its broader commitment to improving transparency and consumer protection in the telecom sector.