NCC to sanction erring operators over SMS regulation

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its plan to sanction any telecommunications operator, which failed to comply with the commission’s directive of dedicating a short code, 2442, on their networks for use by subscribers to opt-in to “Do-Not-Disturb” database.

The code is expected to enable subscribers register their numbers against unsolicited massages with effect from June 30, 2016.The commission further directed telecommunications service providers to stop forthwith, auto renewal of data for pre-paid consumers on their networks, stressing that subscribers must give an approval before such move is carried ut.

Speaking at the 77th edition of the Telecoms Consumer Parliament in Abuja, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta, said he is working to put in place various strategies and policies that would enable the commission actualise its vision of becoming a responsive world-class communications regulatory organisation that protects and empowers the consumer.

He observed that his strategic vision for year 2015-2020 in the 8-point agenda unveiled recently is aimed at ensuring that the consumer is optimally satisfied with the services being provided by the operators.

Danbatta noted that the Telecoms Consumer Parliament provides a platform to discuss and address key issues affecting consumers and suggest possible means of resolving them.

Earlier, the Director Consumer Affairs Bureau, of the commission said that the programme has shaped the regulatory policies of the commission and have led to the enactment of several regulations that benefited consumers and enriched the industry.

Responding to some questions bothering on quality of service and unsolicited massages, the Head, Government Affairs of ntel, Demian Udeh, noted that even though ntel is a virgin network, the firm is ready to comply with the guidelines set out by NCC.

A representative of the MTN said it is disturbing for customers to receive massages they don’t want, adding that MTN is trying to control the amount of messages coming into our network, while a representative of Airtel observed that the company is working toward empowering the customer to take his destiny in his own hands.