NCC, CBN Set Up Task Force to End Failed Telecom Transactions

NCC, CBN Set Up Task Force to End Failed Telecom Transactions

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have formed a joint task force with commercial banks to tackle the growing problem of failed airtime and data transactions that often leave subscribers stranded.

Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who made this known at a media parley in Abuja on Tuesday, said the move was part of fresh efforts to restore consumer confidence in the telecoms and financial services ecosystem.

“Subscribers complain of being debited without receiving value for their recharge. The lack of a standardized framework was the root cause. That is why we had to bring every player to the table,” Maida explained.

The framework, now undergoing review, is expected to harmonize operations around recharges and top-ups, ensuring subscribers get instant value once debited.

Maida also disclosed that the NCC had updated its Quality of Service (QoS) regulations, expanding responsibility beyond mobile operators to include co-location firms (TowerCos).

“Quality of service is no longer just the responsibility of the networks. TowerCos are now within our scope and will equally be held accountable,” he stated.

According to him, operators have submitted detailed service improvement plans, while fresh equipment is being deployed nationwide to boost network performance.

Responding to public concerns about fast-vanishing data, Maida said independent audits by KPMG and PwC found no evidence of deliberate exploitation by operators.

“The problem lies in complex tariff structures that confuse consumers. We have now issued a template for simplified, uniform tariff disclosure,” he said, stressing that transparency will drive competition and consumer protection.

Also speaking, the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau at the NCC, Freda Bruce-Bennett, urged subscribers to adopt practical steps to manage their data.

“Updating apps, turning off video auto-play, and restricting background data for non-essential apps can save a lot,” she advised.

Maida assured that Nigerians would soon feel the benefits of ongoing deployments as the regulator enforces compliance through bi-weekly reviews.

“Our mission is clear: Nigerians should not only have access to telecom services but also trust them to work reliably,” he said.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with banks, operators, and other stakeholders to deliver transparent, affordable, and dependable services.