NCC Launches Crowdsourced Network Report and National Coverage Maps
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a public-facing crowdsourcing report and National Coverage Maps, developed in partnership with global network intelligence firm, Ookla. The initiative marks a major step toward data-driven regulation and improved consumer experience in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The platform provides real-time insights into network quality, enabling consumers to compare service providers and make informed decisions, while encouraging operators to enhance service delivery.
Chip Strange, Chief Strategy Officer at Ookla, described the launch as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s telecom industry, noting its potential to transform consumer interaction with telecom services through transparent and accurate data.
Data Transparency: NCC Introduces Quarterly Network Performance Reports
During the virtual launch, NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the initiative reinforces transparency, accountability, and trust in the telecom sector through credible, publicly available data.
“In every modern economy, reliable information is the foundation of trust and accountability. When we publish credible performance data, consumers make smarter choices, investors allocate capital confidently, and operators improve quality and innovation,” he stated.
The crowdsourced reports will serve as an evolving accountability platform, tracking Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) across networks. Six quarterly publications will provide insights on national network performance, 5G rollout opportunities, device trends, technology mix, and operator comparisons. All data will be updated regularly on the NCC website.
MTN Surpasses 300 Million Subscribers, Reaffirms Digital Commitment to Africa
MTN Group has crossed the 300-million subscriber milestone across its markets, just three decades after launching operations in South Africa. The achievement was celebrated at the Ambassadors Appreciation Dinner attended by diplomats, government officials, and industry leaders.
MTN Group President and CEO, Ralph Mupita, said the milestone aligns with the company’s Ambition 2025 strategy and strengthens its resolve to drive Africa’s digital and socioeconomic development. He praised MTN employees — known as MTNers — for their role, especially through the annual 21 Days of Y’ello Care volunteer campaign themed “Connecting at the Roots: Connecting communities through digital tools.”
Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, Nompilo Morafo, highlighted MTN’s focus on ensuring that everyone enjoys the benefits of a connected life. Among the initiatives celebrated was MTN Eswatini’s “Government in Your Hands,” an e-governance project improving public service accessibility.
CBN, NCC Collaborate to Address Failed Electronic Airtime and Data Transactions
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the NCC are developing a joint framework to address the increasing cases of failed airtime and data transactions conducted through electronic platforms such as USSD and mobile banking apps.
This move follows rising consumer complaints of deductions without value received or transactions stuck in pending status. Speaking at the 94th Telecom Consumer Parliament in Lagos, Dr. Aisha Olatinwo, Director of Consumer Protection and Inclusion at the CBN, said the framework will include a robust dispute-resolution mechanism and sanctions where necessary.
“If a transaction fails, then it has not begun. We must ensure accountability from start to finish so consumers are not left stranded,” she said.
Quasim Odumbaku, Assistant Director at the NCC, cited a Mastercard report showing that 91% of telecom users in Nigeria rely on electronic channels for recharges. He noted that even a 1% failure rate affects millions of users, making it the second most-reported consumer issue in the industry.
The collaboration aims to protect consumers, strengthen confidence in digital financial services, and ensure telecom and financial operators deliver reliable, efficient services.
