Telecommunications expert and President of the National Consumers Advocacy Network, NCAN, Tobi Olanrewaju, has explained why the Nigerian Communications Commission directed telecom operators to compensate subscribers for poor network service.
According to Olanrewaju, the move by the NCC under the leadership of Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida represents a major step toward protecting Nigerian telecom consumers.
He said the regulatory action forced mobile network operators such as MTN Nigeria, Airtel and Glo to take responsibility for poor service delivery experienced by millions of subscribers across the country.
NCC compensation for poor network service
Speaking in a statement on Wednesday, Olanrewaju described the NCC’s intervention as bold and consumer-focused.
He said the decision signals a new era in telecom regulation where the interests of subscribers are prioritised.
“For years, Nigerian telecom subscribers have endured poor service quality with little or no consequence for operators,” he said.
“What we are witnessing under Dr Aminu Maida is a clear assertion that regulatory oversight must translate into tangible benefits for consumers.”
According to him, the NCC compensation for poor network service is not only about refunds or airtime bonuses but also about rebuilding public confidence in the telecommunications sector.
MTN, Airtel and Glo under pressure
Olanrewaju noted that telecom users in Nigeria have repeatedly complained about dropped calls, slow internet speed and unstable network connections.
He added that the NCC’s action shows operators can no longer ignore consumer complaints.
The telecom expert urged other government agencies to follow the NCC’s example by introducing policies that directly improve the lives of Nigerians.
“At a time when Nigerians are facing economic challenges, policies that affect their daily lives should be prioritised,” he added.
MTN subscribers already compensated
The development comes after MTN Nigeria reportedly compensated some subscribers with airtime following complaints about poor network service last month.
The action sparked discussions among telecom users, with many calling on Airtel and Glo to also improve service quality and compensate affected customers.
Industry observers believe the NCC compensation for poor network service could push telecom operators to improve network infrastructure and customer experience across Nigeria.
