NCC Targets 50% Improvement in Telecom Services by End of 2024

Internet Users Drop by 910,000 After Tariff Hike | MTN Retains Lead, Glo Loses More

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its goal of achieving a 50% improvement in the quality of telecommunications services by the end of this year.

This objective by NCC is in line with the priorities set by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, as part of an ongoing effort to enhance Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

In a statement by Reuben Mouka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the Commission detailed its initiatives under the first year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Among these, the enhancement of service quality stands out as an essential target, reflecting the government’s focus on leveraging technology for economic growth.

Dr. Tijani’s Agenda 2023 outlines several key targets beyond the quality of service improvements. These include increasing Nigeria’s broadband penetration to 70% by the end of 2025, achieving data download speeds of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas by the same year, and extending coverage to at least 80% of the population by 2026.

Additionally, the agenda aims to reduce the number of unconnected Nigerians in rural areas from 61% to less than 20% by 2027 and secure a 300% to 500% increase in broadband investment by the end of 2027.

Under the leadership of Dr. Aminu Maida, the NCC has adopted a granular approach to data collection and analysis, focusing on local-level quality of service rather than broad national metrics.

This method allows for targeted solutions and regulatory actions to enhance consumer experiences. Dr. Maida emphasizes the importance of consumer satisfaction throughout their entire journey, from selecting a network to receiving customer support.

To address common consumer complaints, particularly regarding data depletion, the NCC has mandated Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to conduct independent audits of their billing systems. The Commission is also working on simplifying tariff plans to increase transparency for consumers.

On the industry side, the NCC is working to build a resilient telecommunications sector. Efforts include critical advocacy for recognizing telecom infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure and successfully negotiating Right of Way (RoW) fee waivers in multiple states.

The Commission is also engaged in addressing multiple taxation issues through the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

Additionally, the NCC is reviewing its regulatory frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements, such as incorporating Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 5G in its Quality of Service Regulations. These measures are designed to ensure high-speed internet connectivity and robust regulatory oversight.

Through these initiatives, the NCC is actively contributing to the Ministry’s vision of boosting economic growth and productivity via technological innovation.

This comprehensive strategy aims to fulfil the promise of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning Nigeria’s telecom sector as a catalyst for national development.