By Samson Akintaro
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled updated key performance indicators (KPIs) aimed at improving the quality of service provided by telecommunications companies in Nigeria. The new QoS Regulations 2024 introduce specific benchmarks for network segments such as 2G, 3G, and 4G, focusing on metrics like Drop Call Rates, Call Setup Success Rates, and Traffic Congestion.
Under the new regulations, telecom operators that fail to meet these standards will face a fine of N5 million, plus an additional N500,000 for each day the infraction continues.
Telecommunications companies are required to submit monthly reports on their QoS performance, with the NCC conducting assessments through drive tests, consumer surveys, and data from Network Operating Centres (NOCs).
This move aligns with a recent target set by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, aiming for a 50% improvement in telecom services by the year’s end. The NCC’s new approach includes detailed, localized data analysis to enhance service quality and address issues more effectively.
Historically, the NCC has enforced fines for QoS issues, with the most recent case in 2020 resulting in a N2.3 billion penalty for Airtel. In 2019, fines totaling N2.97 billion were imposed on major GSM operators for various violations, including breaches of the Do-Not-Disturb rule designed to protect consumers from unsolicited services.
