NCC moves to tackle data depletion concerns

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has pledged stronger measures to address persistent complaints of data depletion among telecom subscribers, even as it urged corps members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to become “consumer champions” in their communities.

Speaking at the NYSC Orientation Camp Sensitisation Programme in Abuja recently, the Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau of the NCC, Mrs. Freda Ruth Bruce-Bennett, said protecting telecom consumers in a fast-changing digital landscape remains central to the Commission’s mandate.

She noted that the surge in internet subscriptions — which grew from 105 million in August 2018 to 142 million in January 2025 — had heightened consumer concerns over data usage, billing transparency and quality of service.

“Consumer perception of rapid data depletion remains a major pain point and continues to affect Quality of Experience (QoE) as well as overall consumer satisfaction in the telecoms industry,” she said.

Bruce-Bennett explained that while rapid technological changes have introduced new smartphone features, many subscribers lack adequate knowledge of how these features consume data, leading to unintended high usage.

According to her, a recent survey by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) underscored the growing scale of public concern over unexplained data depletion, further highlighting the need for consumer education.

She said the NCC has launched several initiatives, including data usage transparency campaigns, enforcement of fair usage policies, and continuous engagement with service providers, to ensure subscribers get value for their money.

On smart data management, she advised Nigerians to monitor their data usage, use Wi-Fi where possible, turn off automatic updates, restrict background data, disable location services when not in use, and activate data-saving modes on their devices.

“It is important that telecom subscribers are equipped with the knowledge of how to monitor, control, and optimise the usage of their mobile data bundle allowance, be it daily, weekly, or monthly plans,” Bruce-Bennett added.

Addressing corps members, she urged them to spread awareness on consumer rights and the Commission’s initiatives in their host communities.

“As educated, mobile, and socially connected Nigerians, you are key agents of change. We urge you to become consumer champions by spreading awareness, educating others, and engaging with us through feedback and complaints,” she told the corps members.

She reaffirmed NCC’s commitment to building a telecom environment that is “fair, competitive, inclusive, and consumer-friendly.”