NCC dismisses claims of data depletion, highlights key achievements in 2024

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has refuted allegations of widespread data depletion issues across the nation’s mobile networks, following a comprehensive audit of telecom operators.

The audit, concluded in Q3 2024, revealed no significant problems with data billing, contrary to complaints from subscribers.

This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, during a review of the Commission’s activities for the year.

Addressing the allegations, Dr. Maida stated, “We had a hypothesis that it isn’t true there is a data depletion issue in the industry. It could be perception. To address this, we immediately conducted a billing audit on the systems of the major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), using reputable auditors. The exercise, completed in Q3, surprisingly showed no major issues.”

While acknowledging minor concerns in the network systems, he reassured subscribers that the NCC is actively working with operators to resolve these issues, ensuring improved service quality.

Telecom analysts suggest that the complaints of data depletion may stem from a lack of understanding among subscribers regarding data usage patterns.

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“Most users are unaware of how apps running in the background consume data. Educating subscribers about efficient data management could mitigate these concerns,” said John Adeyemi, a Lagos-based telecom consultant.

Others point to the increasing reliance on digital services as a factor. “With the rise in video streaming, online gaming, and virtual meetings, data consumption has naturally increased. This is often misinterpreted as data depletion,” noted Ifeoma Okeke, a digital economy expert.

Another milestone for the NCC in 2024 was the successful implementation of the federal government’s policy mandating the linkage of National Identification Numbers (NIN) with SIM cards. According to Dr. Maida, the exercise has bolstered national security and laid a robust foundation for Nigeria’s digital economy.

“Every single SIM card in the country is now linked to a verified NIN,” he said. “This achievement enhances the telecom regulator’s ability to support law enforcement and provides a reliable framework for digital transactions.”

The linkage process, initiated in December 2020, faced multiple deadlines and significant public resistance. In July 2024, millions of lines were barred due to non-compliance, causing chaos at telecom stores and sparking public protests.

To ease tensions, the NCC directed operators to temporarily reactivate barred lines, extending the final deadline to September 14, 2024.

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The move proved successful, with Dr. Maida emphasizing its importance: “Almost every transaction today, from e-commerce to educational registrations, ties back to mobile numbers. Ensuring accurate identification instills confidence and integrity in the system.”

With these achievements, the NCC aims to strengthen Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure and foster a thriving digital economy. “We’re committed to ensuring reliable services and addressing any emerging challenges in the sector,” Dr. Maida affirmed.

The telecom regulator’s proactive measures have positioned Nigeria to leverage its digital landscape for economic growth while addressing subscriber concerns through robust oversight and continuous improvement.