NCC hosts virtual forum to address unclaimed prepaid balances in telecom sector

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) held an important virtual Stakeholder Engagement Forum on Unclaimed Recharges on April 8, 2025, focusing on the growing issue of unused prepaid balances in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The forum brought together key stakeholders to discuss potential solutions for managing unutilized and unclaimed prepaid funds, a matter that directly affects consumer rights and industry regulations.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, via Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, welcomed participants and stressed the critical role of the telecommunications sector in Nigeria’s economic development and financial inclusion.

 In his remarks, Dr. Maida acknowledged the increasing concern over unclaimed prepaid balances, particularly as accounts become inactive.

Under the Quality-of-Service Business Rules of 2024, prepaid lines that have no revenue-generating activity for six months must be deactivated, with the possibility of recycling the lines if inactivity continues.

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However, subscribers retain the right to reclaim unused balances within a year if they can prove ownership.

The forum fostered lively debate on whether telecom operators should refund unused airtime or uphold the “use it or lose it” policy.

Dr. Maida emphasized the importance of finding a balanced approach that ensures consumer protection while maintaining a competitive and efficient telecom industry. He called for open discussions to help establish a regulatory framework that addresses these challenges effectively.

Mrs. Chizua Whyte, the NCC’s Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, provided further insights into the draft guidance for managing unutilized and unclaimed subscriber funds.

The proposal suggests a 12-month period for consumers to reclaim unused balances after deactivation. She explained that telecom operators would be required to submit audits for deactivated lines and refrain from monetizing unclaimed recharges. Instead, unused funds would be offered to consumers through alternative services like data plans, voice packages, or other value-added services.

The draft guidance, which includes a 90-day implementation timeline and penalties for non-compliance, reinforces the NCC’s commitment to establishing a transparent, accountable, and consumer-centric regulatory environment. Stakeholders were urged to provide feedback, which will help shape the final regulatory framework.

This forum marked a significant milestone in ensuring that the Nigerian telecommunications sector evolves in line with best international practices while maintaining a strong focus on consumer rights and industry growth.