NCC celebrates World Consumer Rights Day, reinforces commitment to protecting telecom consumers

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on March 15, celebrated World Consumer Rights Day at its head office in Maitama, Abuja.

Clem Omife, Deputy Director of the Consumer Affairs Bureau, delivered a speech, highlighting the significance of the day, which is observed annually to emphasize the rights of consumers and protect them from exploitation and unfair practices.

World Consumer Rights Day serves as a reminder of the critical role consumers play in the economy. Clem Omife quoted renowned economist Adam Smith, who asserted that “Consumption is the sole end and purpose of all production,” underscoring that the interests of producers should be aligned with those of consumers. This principle emphasizes that consumer welfare is central to the functioning of any market.

The importance of consumer rights was further underscored by John Wanamaker, the former American Postmaster General and advertising pioneer, who famously declared “The customer is king.”

Omife noted that at the NCC, telecom consumers are regarded as royalty because they drive the core activities of the telecommunications sector.

The NCC is committed to safeguarding consumer rights and has implemented various consumer-centric initiatives.

These efforts include extensive consumer education programs and outreach activities such as the Telecom Consumer Parliament, Telecom Consumer Conversations, Village Square Dialogue, Campus Conversations, and NYSC Camp Sensitization Town Hall on Radio.

Additionally, the Commission has published the Telecom Consumer Handbook and made it accessible in Braille for the visually impaired.

In its ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection, the NCC is nearing the completion of deploying the Automated Consumer Complaints Management System.

This new system aims to expand complaint channels and improve resolution processes, even at the first level with service providers, ensuring more efficient handling of consumer grievances.

Clem Omife concluded his address by reiterating the central role of consumers in the telecommunications industry.

He emphasised that without consumers, there would be no industry, and affirmed the Commission’s continued dedication to ensuring consumer rights are upheld.

The celebration of World Consumer Rights Day at the NCC underscored the organization’s commitment to protecting and empowering consumers.