By The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has advised Nigerians to use their data more wisely, as complaints about fast data depletion and billing issues keep rising. The advice came during the 93rd Telecom Consumer Parliament in Abuja, where the NCC, telecom operators, and other stakeholders discussed how to improve the consumer experience.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, explained that the Commission had investigated the complaints by asking telecom operators to check their billing systems. The results showed no major problems, but people’s perceptions remain because of two key reasons: the advanced features of modern devices and confusing data charges.
“With the rise of 4G and 5G, as well as devices with better screens, data usage has gone up,” Maida said. “For instance, viewing a photo on Instagram used to use about 100 kilobytes of data five years ago. Today, that same photo can consume up to 4 megabytes because of higher resolutions.”
To help consumers, the NCC has started a campaign in partnership with mobile operators to teach people how to manage their data. The campaign is running on TV, radio, newspapers, and through text messages.
Meanwhile, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) says data prices must go up for the industry to survive. ALTON President, Gbenga Adebayo, admitted that customers are worried about rising costs but stressed that it is necessary.
“For the telecom industry to keep growing and improving, Nigerians will need to pay more for data,” Adebayo said. “If we don’t act now, the situation could get worse in the future.”
Adebayo urged all stakeholders, including the government, to work together to find lasting solutions that balance affordability and sustainability.
The NCC and telecom operators both agreed on the need for transparency and partnerships to ensure Nigerians get good value for their money while keeping the industry healthy and innovative.
