The Nigerian Communications Fee (NCC) has directed cell community operators (MNOs) to compensate subscribers for service interruptions, marking a shift from conventional fines to direct shopper restitution.
In an announcement on Sunday, Head of Public Affairs Nnenna Ukoha defined that the directive applies to operators whose community efficiency falls under established requirements in particular areas.
Compensation will likely be triggered when service high quality fails to satisfy prescribed High quality of Service (QoS) Key Efficiency Indicators, with affected subscribers receiving airtime credit.
The NCC mentioned the quantity of compensation will likely be calculated based mostly on customers’ common spending and their presence in areas affected by service disruptions.
“Subscribers shouldn’t bear the total burden of service disruptions the place operators fail to satisfy prescribed requirements,” Ukoha famous.
The coverage kinds a part of broader efforts to prioritise shopper safety and strengthen accountability throughout the telecommunications sector.
The fee highlighted that poor service supply can have an effect on productiveness, enterprise actions, and public confidence in communications methods.
Moreover, tower corporations answerable for crucial infrastructure, akin to masts, will likely be required to put money into upgrades to boost service supply.
Funds generated from regulatory fines will likely be reinvested to spice up community resilience and develop capability consistent with rising demand.
The NCC emphasised that the directive reinforces its dedication to equity, transparency, and accountability, making certain subscribers nationwide take pleasure in dependable and constant telecom providers.