The
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a directive to Mobile
Network Operators (MNOs) to simplify their tariff plans, bundles, and
promotional activities. The directive, titled "Guidance on the
Simplification of Tariffs in the Nigerian Communications Sector," aims to
provide clear and accurate information about the cost of voice, SMS, and data
services to subscribers.
The
NCC in a press release signed by the Public Affairs Director, Reuben Muoka has
mandated MNOs to publish a comprehensive table showing the features of their
tariff plans and bundle offers, including details on add-ons, prices, terms and
conditions, and rollover policies. This move is expected to reduce the
complexity of tariff plans and bundles, ensuring transparency and fairness of
promotional elements.
The
guidelines also require service providers to display all relevant information
about their tariffs, including the name of the plan, price, validity period,
and fair usage policies. Additionally, MNOs must communicate tariffs to
subscribers in clear language and a user-friendly format, with full disclosure
of a subscriber's tariff plan via USSD.
The
NCC has given operators until December 31, 2024, to migrate all subscribers to
the simplified tariff plans. The commission emphasizes that operators must meet
the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) standards set out in the Quality of
Service (QoS) Regulations while complying with the guidelines.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye