NCC sensitises corps members at NYSC orientation camp on data management, others
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has pledged tougher measures to address persistent complaints of data depletion among telecom subscribers, as it called on 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, reiterated that protecting telecom consumers in a fast-changing digital landscape remains central to the Commission’s mandate.
Bruce-Bennett cited the surge in internet subscriptions — which grew from 105 million in August 2018 to 142 million in January 2025, noting that it had heightened consumer concerns over data usage, billing transparency and quality of service.
According to her, “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 pointed out that while rapid technological changes have introduced new smartphone features, many subscribers still lack adequate knowledge of how these features consume data, leading to unintended high usage.
A recent survey by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), she said emphasized the growing scale of public concern over unexplained data depletion, further underscoring the need for consumer education.
She maintained that 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.
Commenting 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.
Bruce-Bennett added “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,”
She urged the corps members to spread awareness on consumer rights as well as the Commission’s initiatives in their host communities.
In her words: “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 reiterated NCC’s commitment to building a telecom environment that is fair, competitive, inclusive, and consumer-friendly, stressing “Together, let us build a telecom sector that works for all Nigerians — not just in access, but in quality, transparency, and trust.”