In a bold move to safeguard telecom consumers, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a draft regulatory framework ensuring that subscribers can reclaim unused airtime on deactivated lines—a first-of-its-kind policy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Empowering Subscribers
The proposed guidelines prioritize consumer rights by:
- Guaranteeing 12-Month Recovery Window: Subscribers can reclaim unutilized airtime within one year of line deactivation, preventing unnecessary losses.
- Banning Monetization, Promoting Service Benefits: While cash refunds remain restricted, users will have flexible service options (data, calls, SMS) to utilize their balances.
- Transparent Audits: Operators must conduct detailed audits of inactive lines and submit reports to the NCC, ensuring accountability.
- Mandatory Consumer Awareness: Telecom companies must notify users via SMS, websites, and multilingual campaigns about their rights under the new policy.
NCC’s Pro-Consumer Stance
The Commission’s draft addresses longstanding gaps in the sector, where inactive subscribers often lose unused airtime without recourse. By adopting global best practices while tailoring them to Nigeria’s context, the NCC demonstrates its commitment to:
- Fairness: Unlike some countries where balances are forfeited immediately, Nigeria’s 12-month window offers a reasonable claim period.
- Innovation: The service-option model ensures subscribers derive value even without cash refunds.
- Regulatory Leadership: The NCC’s proactive engagement with operators ensures policies are practical yet consumer-centric.
Responsive to Operator Concerns
While telecom providers like Airtel, Smile, and MTN raised implementation concerns, the NCC has shown flexibility by:
- Considering Extended Timelines: Evaluating requests for a 180-day compliance period instead of 90 days.
- Clarifying Reporting Requirements: Streamlining audit processes to reduce operator burdens while maintaining transparency.
- Setting Minimum Thresholds: Reviewing proposals to exclude negligible balances (e.g., ₦1) from retention mandates.
A Win for Nigeria’s Digital Economy
This policy reinforces the NCC’s role as a forward-thinking regulator, aligning with the federal government’s push for a more inclusive digital economy. By protecting subscribers’ airtime investments, the Commission boosts confidence in telecom services, fostering growth and innovation.
Next Steps: The NCC will finalize the framework after further stakeholder consultations, ensuring a balanced and enforceable policy.
