Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria are actively addressing persistent subscriber complaints about data depletion by introducing enhanced transparency tools. This move aims to rebuild trust and provide clearer insights into data consumption patterns.
Sources within the industry indicate that a significant tool under consideration is a 'data calculator'. This feature is intended to offer subscribers a detailed daily breakdown of how their mobile data is being utilized, thereby demystifying the depletion process.
In line with directives from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), telecom operators are already furnishing subscribers with daily reports detailing their data usage from the previous day. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster greater transparency within the sector.
An unnamed official from a telecom operator highlighted that subscriber concerns over data depletion have become a critical issue affecting trust. "An average subscriber believes their service provider steals their data once their data is exhausted before time or depletes faster than they expected, which is not true," the official stated.
The official further explained that over the years, operators have attempted to educate subscribers on factors contributing to rapid data usage, such as smartphone functionalities. "And now, we are looking at tools that could show the subscribers not just what they have used, but also how they have used it to further promote transparency," they added.
The operators are also intensifying their public awareness campaigns to help subscribers better understand the reasons behind fast data consumption. This includes educating users on how background app activity and device settings can impact data usage.
This development follows a December 2024 announcement by the NCC stating that an audit of mobile networks found no significant data depletion issues. The NCC's Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, indicated that the audit, completed in Q3 2024, revealed only minor network issues that were being addressed.
Dr. Maida had previously stated, "We had a hypothesis that it isn’t true that there is a data depletion issue in the industry. It could be perception." He confirmed that a billing audit of major MNOs by reputable auditors did not uncover any substantial problems.
The NCC's Consumer Affairs Bureau has also issued advisories to subscribers, outlining common reasons for experiencing rapid data depletion, such as automatic app updates, background data usage, and streaming services.
