By Kester Omu
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has asked the stakeholders, especially the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) to collaborate in resolving some of the disputes that usually arise between telecom providers and the consumers.
The Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau at NCC, Abdullahi I. Maikano, who made the call in his opening remark at the 4th Quarter Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) 2017 organized by NCC with the theme ‘Telecom Dispute Resolution And Redress Mechanism’, believes such collaboration will further protect the interests of the telecoms consumers, who sometimes feel cheated by the service providers.
“To empower the consumer with the knowledge to seek redress, we need the collaboration of all stakeholders because we know a simple and effective dispute resolution system gives the consumer confidence,” he said.
According to him, the theme of the event ‘Telecom Dispute Resolution And Redress Mechanism’, resonates with the Consumer Affairs Bureau’s progammes and projects, which are geared towards ensuring the protection of the rights, privileges and interest of telecom consumers, including that of the physically challenged groups.
Maikano disclosed that the Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) was established by the Nigerian Communications Commission to provide advisory services on matters that affect the welfare of telecom consumers in Nigeria. He said since its inauguration in 2006, ICAF has continued to play significant role in shaping telecom regulation in the country.
At the end of the forum, a resolution was passed, saying the channels of resolving telecom disputes are adequate, but can be improved on.
Other resolutions are the agents handling the channels should be trained to be more professionals.
ICAF to advise NCC accordingly on issues raised by consumer
NCC should speedily address call masking as a result of security
NCC to strengthen collaboration with relevant agencies
NCC to continue to monitor the DND services