NCC Sensitises Students On Data Security, Consumer Rights

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding telecommunications consumers through public enlightenment, improved service delivery and stronger regulatory oversight of the industry.

The Commission said it was stepping up efforts to educate subscribers on their rights and obligations, particularly in areas relating to data usage, personal information security and the resolution of complaints arising from telecommunications services.

The Director of Zonal Operations, Mr Usman Malla, represented by Mrs Maryan Gwandu, disclosed this at a consumer awareness programme held at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

The exercise focused on data management, consumer protection and the Commission’s regulatory initiatives, with the aim of improving communication between service providers and subscribers.

Gwandu said the programme was intended to familiarise consumers with the protections available to them under existing regulations, as well as the appropriate channels for resolving complaints against telecommunications operators.

She listed some of the issues addressed during the sensitisation exercise to include data management, SIM-related matters, unsolicited messages, quality of service and Mobile Number Portability (MNP).

She urged subscribers to be proactive in protecting their personal information, keeping track of their telecommunications services and reporting poor service delivery through the NCC’s established complaint channels.

According to her, greater awareness of consumer rights and available complaint mechanisms would promote accountability among service providers and contribute to better service delivery across the industry.

Also speaking, the team lead of the NCC delegation, Mrs Anthonia Ita-Nyong, explained that the institution was chosen because of students’ extensive reliance on mobile networks and internet services for research, academic assignments, communication and other educational purposes.

She also introduced participants to the Commission’s Device Checker initiative, which allows subscribers to confirm whether their mobile phones have received NCC type approval.

Ita-Nyong said the initiative was aimed at preventing consumers from purchasing substandard mobile devices that could pose safety risks and affect device performance and telecommunications service quality.

In his remarks, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Sanusi Avidime, represented by his Deputy, Prof. Godwin Onamah, applauded the NCC for extending its consumer education campaign to the institution.

He encouraged students and other participants to make good use of the programme by gaining a better understanding of their entitlements and obligations as users of telecommunications services.

Avidime noted that knowledge of consumer protection regulations and responsible use of mobile services would enable students to make informed choices and minimise difficulties associated with mobile communication and internet usage.

Some participants, including Rahanat Ohunene and Jethro Ariyo, described the initiative as relevant and beneficial, saying it had improved their understanding of data management, consumer protection rights and online security.

They commended the NCC for taking its awareness campaign to the academic community, adding that the information provided would encourage students and lecturers to adopt safer and more responsible telecommunications practices.