— New framework aims to protect consumer rights and promote industry efficiency
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed a 12-month grace period for subscribers to reclaim unused airtime on deactivated mobile lines, in a move aimed at safeguarding consumer interests while maintaining operational efficiency in the telecommunications sector.
The proposal was unveiled on Tuesday during a virtual stakeholder engagement forum held in Abuja. Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida—represented by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama—explained that the initiative is part of broader efforts to address emerging industry challenges and protect consumer rights.
Dr. Maida noted that Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has been instrumental in driving economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation. He highlighted the popularity of prepaid plans and mobile services among millions of Nigerians, but stressed the need for clear regulations regarding unused airtime on inactive lines.
According to the NCC, the newly introduced Quality-of-Service Business Rules 2024 stipulate that a prepaid line without any revenue-generating activity for six months must be deactivated. If inactivity persists for another six months, the number may be recycled.
Under the proposed framework, however, subscribers whose lines are eventually deactivated would have a one-year window to reclaim any unused airtime—provided they can verify ownership of the line.
“This initiative seeks to strike a balance between consumer protection and the practical requirements of maintaining a robust telecommunications system,” Maida stated. “There is an ongoing debate about whether operators should refund unused airtime or uphold the ‘use it or lose it’ principle, but our goal is to ensure a fair and efficient resolution.”
Also speaking at the forum, NCC’s Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, described the Draft Guidance on Unutilised and Unclaimed Subscribers’ Recharges as a critical step toward fulfilling the commission’s regulatory mandate.
She emphasized that the proposed guidance is designed to foster a more transparent and consumer-friendly telecom environment, further enhancing trust in the sector.
The NCC’s new proposal signals a progressive shift in regulatory policy as it moves to adapt to evolving consumer needs and industry dynamics.
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