The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has implemented rigorous new Quality of Service (QoS) regulations for telecommunications companies, which take effect immediately. The updated QoS Regulations 2024 outline stringent performance standards across various network segments, including 2G, 3G, and 4G services. These regulations specifically focus on key metrics such as Drop Call Rates, Call Setup Success Rate, and Traffic Congestion, among others. Telecommunications companies are now required to adhere to these standards, with penalties imposed for non-compliance.
Under the new regulations, any failure to meet the specified QoS parameters will result in a substantial fine of N5 million per infraction. Additionally, companies will face an ongoing daily penalty of N500,000 for each day the infraction remains unresolved. These penalties underscore the NCC’s commitment to ensuring that telecom operators provide reliable and high-quality services to Nigerian consumers.
The NCC has set an ambitious goal to achieve a 50% improvement in the quality of service by the end of the year. This target aligns with broader objectives, including the Commission’s plan to increase broadband penetration to 70% by 2025. These goals are part of a larger strategic vision outlined by Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, who recently emphasized the importance of achieving a 50% telecom service quality target.
In addition to improving service quality, the NCC’s strategic agenda includes several other key initiatives. By the end of 2025, the Commission aims to deliver data download speeds of 25Mbps in urban areas and 10Mbps in rural regions. Furthermore, by 2026, the NCC intends to extend network coverage to at least 80% of Nigeria’s population, with a particular focus on reaching underserved and unserved areas.
These new regulations come at a time when telecommunications companies are grappling with significant economic challenges, including the devaluation of the Naira and high inflation rates. These factors have strained the ability of telecom operators to invest in expanding network capacity and maintaining service quality. Despite these challenges, the NCC remains resolute in its mission to enhance the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria, ensuring that consumers receive the high-quality services they deserve
