NCC Directs Mobile Network Operators to Audit Billing Systems

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has emphasized the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) on various sectors, including education, healthcare, public services, and energy management. With Nigeria's young, tech-savvy population and expanding internet access, the digital economy is set for significant growth, positively impacting multiple sectors.

 

In a statement by Reuben Muoka, NCC's Director of Press, the Commission highlighted the rapid pace of global digital transformation, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote work and virtual collaboration tools have become essential, and e-commerce has revolutionized consumer behavior. AI and IoT are key drivers of this change, enhancing various aspects of life.

 

Telecommunications infrastructure is crucial for this digital transformation, with universal, affordable, reliable, and fast telecom services becoming social rights. The backbone of digital transformation lies in robust mobile networks and data centers, enabling data storage, processing, and integration of digital technologies.

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda aims to harness the potential of the digital economy, particularly benefiting youth and women. The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, unveiled a strategic blueprint titled "Accelerating our Collective Prosperity through Technical Efficiency," aiming to support economic growth through digital innovation.

 

Dr. Tijani’s Strategic Agenda 2023-2027 sets ambitious targets: a 50% improvement in Quality of Service (QoS) by the end of 2024, 70% broadband penetration by 2025, and significant enhancements in data download speeds and coverage, particularly for underserved and unserved populations.

 

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, has outlined three Strategic Focus Areas: Consumers, the Industry and Licensees, and the Government. His approach aims to balance the needs and expectations of each stakeholder group.

 

For consumers, Dr. Maida focuses on ensuring an enhanced Quality of Experience, considering all touchpoints in the consumer journey. To address data depletion complaints, the NCC has directed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct an independent audit of their billing systems and is working to simplify tariff plans for greater transparency.

 

For the industry, Dr. Maida aims to create a resilient sector and enhance regulatory services. The NCC is addressing industry debt, advocating for the designation of telecom infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, and successfully negotiating Right of Way (RoW) fee waivers in several states. Additionally, the Commission is engaging with the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms to tackle multiple taxation issues. 

The NCC is also reviewing its regulatory instruments and licensing frameworks to align with current realities, incorporating Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 5G and other critical services. These efforts support the Ministry’s vision of boosting economic growth and productivity through technological innovation, fulfilling the promise of Renewed Hope for all Nigerians.