The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed telecom operators to streamline their tariff plans, packages, and promotional offers after many Nigerians voiced dissatisfaction with the rapid depletion of their airtime and data plans, which used to last much longer.
NCC spokesperson Reuben Muoka stated on Monday that the regulator has instructed all telecommunications companies to provide transparent, understandable, and precise details on the prices of voice, SMS, and data services to all customers.
“The guideline is the outcome of consultations with industry stakeholders, including Mobile Network Operators and Consumer Focus Groups, and extensive data analysis on consumer preferences and expectations,” he said.
Muoka said the regulator’s directive to telcos included a requirement to display a detailed table outlining the characteristics of their tariff plans and package deals.
“The table should contain all necessary information for subscribers to make informed decisions, including details on add-ons, their prices, how consumers can opt in or out, terms and conditions for renewal, and rollover policies,” Muoka said.
“The objectives of the simplification guidelines are to reduce the complexity of tariff plans and bundles, ensure transparency and fairness of promotional elements of tariff plans, protect consumers’ interests by providing clear and understandable tariff information so that they make informed decisions, and promote fair competition among licensees by standardising tariff structures.
“Service providers are also required to display all relevant information about their tariffs, such as the name of the plan, price, validity period, price-per-second for on or off-network and international calls, expected data speeds, and fair usage policies.” The directive stated.