NCC to publish approved data plans to simplify tariffs and enhance consumer satisfaction
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to publish approved data plans for GSM operators as part of its efforts to simplify tariffs and prioritize consumer satisfaction in the telecommunications industry.
According to the NCC, the initiative aims to ensure the telecom sector remains consumer-centric, profitable, and sustainable. Under the new policy, no GSM operator in Nigeria will be allowed to offer more than seven approved data plans. The NCC explained that separating tariffs from promotional elements would help streamline offerings and avoid consumer confusion.
The commission highlighted that having too many data plans creates complexity for users, potentially hindering the sector’s growth and development. The NCC seeks to promote clarity, fairness, and improved consumer experiences by standardizing data plans.
To maintain healthy competition, the NCC reiterated that no operator can set anti-competitive prices or engage in practices detrimental to market harmony. The commission monitors the industry closely, accounting for operators’ spectrum usage and implementing price control measures where necessary.
Additionally, the NCC enforces several regulatory practices, including the submission of annual audited reports by GSM operators, continuous consumer education, the facilitation of number portability, and periodic spectrum auctions.
These efforts are grounded in the NCC’s regulatory powers as outlined in the Nigerian Telecommunications Policy National Act of 2003. The commission’s mandate includes overseeing industry resources, spectrum management, equipment approvals, operator competition, and the regulation of value-added services such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
By implementing these measures, the NCC aims to foster a balanced telecom environment that benefits both operators and consumers.
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