NCC enforces strict QoS rules, sets N5m penalty for non-compliance

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled new Quality of Service (QoS) Regulations for 2024, establishing stringent performance metrics for telecommunications companies across 2G, 3G, and 4G networks.

The regulations set specific benchmarks for critical parameters such as Drop Call Rates, Call Setup Success Rate, and Traffic Congestion.

Under the new rules, telcos that fail to meet these standards will face a hefty fine of N5 million, with an additional penalty of N500,000 per day for the duration of the infraction.

The NCC requires telecommunications providers to submit monthly QoS reports, while it will monitor compliance through methods including drive tests, consumer surveys, and data collection from Network Operating Centres (NOCs).

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This move comes in response to the recent 50% telecom service target set by Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The NCC aims to meet this target by the end of the year.

In addition to the QoS targets, Tijani’s Strategic Agenda 2023 includes ambitious goals for the sector.

These include increasing Nigeria’s broadband penetration to 70% by 2025, achieving data download speeds of 25Mbps in urban areas and 10Mbps in rural areas by 2025, and expanding coverage to at least 80% of the population, particularly underserved regions, by 2026.

To enhance service quality, the NCC has adopted a more granular approach to data collection. Instead of a broad national view, the Commission will gather detailed data from operators and analyze it at local levels.

This strategy aims to improve the Quality of Experience for consumers and enable the deployment of targeted solutions or regulatory actions where necessary.