- Abolish Auto play Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, Facebook, X
- Block malwares which drain your data
- Choose data usage prioritisation and avoid binge watching
- Disable background data usage
- Eradicate annoying Ads with 3rd party Ad blockers
- Favour low data versions of apps, eg Facebook Lite, YouTube Go, Opera Mini
- Go to WiFi for iCloud Drive and backup, Android, IOS, and WhatsApp backup
- Hide your location in settings
- Implement passwords protection. Restrict hotspot usage and know who is using your data. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication.
- Jettison automatic downloads of status updates on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp
- Know your usage appetite. Track pattern. Use an App on your Providers website
- Limit and delete unused Apps
- Migrate to data saving mode: Android /iPhone. Setting. Mobile service. Choose the phone number. Choose lower data mode
- NO to automatic app status updates
- Observe use of Offline downloads to view music/video, google maps, and watch repeatedly
- Promote the use of built-in phone data usage trackers. 1. Mobile service. Reset Statistics. Promote the use of usage alerts. 2. Apps. Settings. Internet. Carrier. Data warning and limit. And select the limit.
- Query data service terms. 30 days is only with responsible usage. Not a lifetime guarantee
- Remove or reduce phone notifications
- Stream affordably using SD not HD. Facebook, Instagram, Netflix, Reddit, Spotify etc. are data hogs
- Technology you use affects your data consumption
- Use WiFi for downloads, app updates; Options are off, mobile and wifi or WiFi
- Verify your data plans. MNO plans. Promos, bundles and choose the best.
- Watch for unintentional overuse.
- X-ray, minimize use and roll over some of your data
- Yank off mobile data usage when not needed
- Zero archaic phones. Smart data needs smart devices.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has enacted the Consumer Code of Practice Regulations, 2024, which replaces the 2007 Regulations. This new framework strengthens the operationalization of consumer rights by establishing clear standards to protect, inform, and empower telecom users, ensuring they can make informed decisions in the marketplace.
Nigeria has one of the largest telecoms markets in Africa, with over 172 million active mobile subscribers. Most Nigerians and residents purchase their mobile devices from within the Country, and these are largely imported. However, not all handsets meet the required technical and safety standards.
Telecom services like phone calls, SMS, and internet access have become part of everyday life. But many Consumers face problems with these services despite the protections and structures put in place to prevent these occurring. For example, Consumers encounter various challenges when dealing with telecom service providers.
Some common issues include:
- Network Outages: Frequent service interruptions can disrupt communication and affect productivity especially in areas with poor infrastructure or during undersea cable cuts.
- Billing Discrepancies: Unexpected charges or unclear Billing Statements can lead to confusion and frustration.
- Poor Customer Service: Difficulty in reaching Customer Support or receiving inadequate responses to complaints can leave consumers feeling frustrated.
- Unauthorized Charges: Consumers may find themselves billed for services they did not authorize or subscribe to.
- Data Depletion: Data bundles purchased are often consumed much faster than expected.
- Call Drop: This happens when a call ends/terminates abruptly when the Consumer is still in the middle of making or receiving a call.
Remedies Available to Consumers
If you encounter any issues with your Telecom Service Provider, there are several remediation steps NCC has ensured you can take:
- Contact Customer Support: Your first step is to contact your Service Provider's customer support through their various channel; social media or through their 300 Customer Help Desk. Make sure they give you a Complaint Ticket Number. With this number, you are able to track your complaints, document your interactions, including dates, times, and the names of their Help Desk Representatives you speak with.
- Contact the NCC: If your issue is not satisfactorily resolved by your Service Provider, please contact the NCC immediately through any of the following Complaints channels:
- Complete a Digital Complaint Form on the Consumer Portal (www.consumer.ncc.gov.ng)
- Send a written complaint by mail to any of the NCC zonal offices, or through the Head Office in Abuja.
- Call the NCC toll-free line – 622 to lodge your complaint. Remember to have your complaint ticket number handy, as you would be required to provide it.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the NCC's website and Consumer Portal for updates on Consumer Rights, Regulations, and any new initiatives aimed at protecting Telecom Consumers.
In today's digital age, telecommunications services affect the way we work, live and play.
As Consumers in Nigeria, it is crucial to understand your Rights and the Remedies available to you when dealing with your Telecom Service Providers. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has established Guidelines to protect Consumers and ensure fair practices in the telecom sector. This Article serves as a guide to help you navigate your Rights and Remedies in the telecommunications landscape.
Understanding Your Rights as a Telecom Consumer
As a Consumer of telecom services in Nigeria, you have several Rights that are protected by the NCC. These Rights include:
- Right to Quality Service: Consumers are entitled to receive quality services that meet the standards set by the NCC. This includes reliable network coverage, uninterrupted service, and prompt resolution of complaints. The NCC sets quality and monitors standards to ensure telecom providers meet these expectations.
- Right to be informed: Consumers have the right to be informed about the terms and conditions of services, including any changes to service plans or policies. Telecom Providers are required to notify Consumers about any changes to service plans or policies, ensuring informed decision-making.
- Right to Safety: This ensures that Telecom Consumers are protected from products and services that are hazardous to their health. The NCC mandates that all telecom services, equipment, and infrastructure must meet the approved standards.
- Right to Choose: This Right empowers Telecom Consumers to choose products/services that best meet their needs, without being pressured to do so.
- Right to timely Redress: If you experience service failures or issues, you have the Right to seek redress. This includes the Right to lodge complaints and receive timely responses from your Service Provider. The NCC ensures that Service Providers respond to complaints promptly and adequately.
- Right to Privacy: Consumers’ personal information must be protected. Telecom companies are required to ensure the confidentiality of your data and cannot disclose it without your consent, and must adhere to data protection regulations to prevent unauthorized disclosures or misuse.
- Right to Action on Disputed Charges: Telecom Consumers have the right to challenge and seek correction for any incorrect or unfair charges on their bills.
- Right to Fair Complaint Process: This ensures that Consumers have a right to get fair, inexpensive and quick redress of their complaints.
- Right to Clearly Worded Organized Bill: Telecom Consumers must have a right to transparent billing which must be clear and accurate . Service Providers must provide detailed information about charges, including any fees for services rendered. This includes itemized lists of services used, ensuring no hidden fees.
- Right to Timely Installation, Restoration and Repair of Service: Consumers have the right to timely Installation, Restoration, and Repair of Service which ensures that Telecom Consumers receive services promptly and without unnecessary delays.
- Right to be Heard: Telecom Consumers must be given the opportunity to express their concerns, complaints or feedback and have them acknowledged and considered.
- Right To Timely and Responsive Customer Service: This Right ensures that Telecom Consumers receive prompt, helpful, and respectful assistance whenever they reach out to their service Providers.
Understanding your Rights as a telecom consumer in Nigeria is essential for ensuring that you receive the quality service you deserve. The Nigerian Communications Commission is committed to protecting Consumers and providing avenues for redress.
By being informed and proactive, you can navigate the telecom landscape with confidence and hold Service Providers accountable for their obligations.
Visit www.consumer.ncc.gov.ng for more information.
Have you ever tried to buy airtime, data, or subscriptions, and although the money left your account, the service didn’t arrive? Failed payments can happen, but knowing why and what to do can save you stress.
Why Do Payments Fail?
- Poor or unstable internet connection
Helping Subscribers Make Smart, Informed Choices
With a variety of Telecom Plans available today, choosing the right one can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you use your phone for calls, data, or both, selecting a Plan that matches your lifestyle and budget is key to getting the best value.
When you buy airtime, subscribe for data, or send that “how far” message on WhatsApp, have you ever paused to ask: Who exactly is providing this service, and how do they operate? Well, let’s break it down in simple Naija style.