The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has ordered telecom service providers to compensate subscribers affected by poor network quality with airtime credits under a stricter nationwide enforcement framework.
The directive is part of renewed efforts to enhance service delivery, safeguard consumers, and hold operators accountable for ongoing network performance issues across the country.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, made this known during a media briefing on Thursday, where he outlined the commission’s updated compliance and enforcement strategies.
According to him, the compensation policy follows confirmed cases where telecom operators failed to meet the required minimum quality of service standards in several areas. He emphasized that the airtime credits are not refunds from the regulator but a responsibility telecom companies must fulfill.
Maida explained that the commission now uses detailed monitoring systems at the local government level, enabling it to accurately identify specific locations and periods where service failures occur. This approach allows for targeted action based on real user experiences rather than general complaints.
He disclosed that the compensation will cover service deficiencies recorded between November 2025 and January 2026 across multiple networks. Affected subscribers will receive airtime credits along with notifications explaining the reason and value of the compensation.
The NCC also noted that enhanced monitoring systems now capture real-time, location-based performance data, ensuring more precise regulation and enforcement.
Telecom operators are expected to implement the compensation directly, while the commission will supervise the process and conduct independent verification to ensure compliance. Operators who fail to comply risk facing sanctions.
Maida added that the move is part of broader reforms aimed at improving accountability and raising service standards in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. He warned that stricter enforcement measures will be applied to operators who continue to fall short of expectations.
He further stressed the need for consistent investment in infrastructure and improved operational discipline, especially in underserved and rural areas.
Reaffirming the NCC’s commitment, Maida said the commission remains focused on ensuring Nigerians receive value for money, adding that persistent poor service quality will no longer be tolerated under the current regulatory framework.