NCC: Over 75 Million Telecom Subscribers Get Compensation Over Poor Service

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says more than 75 million telecom subscribers have received compensation from mobile network operators (MNOs). This follows regulatory directives aimed at fixing poor quality of service.

The commission disclosed this in a statement after the 109th meeting of its governing board. Members reviewed measures introduced to improve service delivery in the telecom sector.

In March, the NCC ordered MNOs to compensate subscribers affected by poor service in locations where quality standards were not met. “The board noted substantial progress in the implementation of the commission’s directive, particularly the full compliance of which has resulted in compensation being offered to over 75 million affected subscribers,” the NCC said.

Ongoing complaints and enforcement

The development comes as telecom users keep complaining about dropped calls, network congestion, poor voice quality, and slow internet connectivity across the country. The NCC said consumers should continue to engage with the commission as it works to boost service quality and protect subscriber interests.

According to the regulator, the Co-location and Infrastructure Sharing Licensees (TowerCos) have only partially complied with the directive to fund escrow accounts with the full amount of regulatory fines for infrastructure reinvestment. “While noting the progress made to date, the board emphasised the importance of full compliance to ensure that the intended infrastructure improvements are realised sustainably,” the NCC said.

Infrastructure expansion

The NCC also acknowledged recent efforts by MNOs to enhance network coverage, capacity, and overall quality of experience. Mobile operators have planned the deployment of over 12,000 additional coverage and capacity sites. Over 5,000 have already been completed, representing a 40 per cent completion rate.

The board noted continued investments in telecom infrastructure. Fibre connectivity has been extended to more than 700 sites to strengthen network resilience, improve backhaul capacity, and enhance service reliability. Infrastructure providers have also deployed new equipment across over 2,000 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to support network expansion and improve service quality.

The NCC expressed concern over the continued vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure, calling it a major challenge to industry growth. It noted ongoing efforts by security agencies to protect telecom facilities designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure.