Dr. Muhammadu Mustapha, the Lamido of Adamawa, expressed his appreciation for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and its various initiatives aimed at safeguarding telecom consumers. He particularly praised the recent Village Square Dialogue (VSD) held in Yola, Adamawa State, where individuals and businesses had the opportunity to engage with the regulator on telecom-related matters.
Representing Lamido Adamawa at the “Know Your Rights as Telecom Consumers” Consumer Conversation program organized by the Commission, Prof. Abubakar Tahir, Kakakin Adamawa, commended the NCC for its dedicated efforts in consumer education and enlightenment. He acknowledged the Commission’s role as the sector’s regulator and lauded its commitment to disseminating vital consumer information to the people of Adamawa.
The royal leader also suggested that the NCC explore avenues to further reduce the cost of telecom services and ensure their availability in all parts of the country. Emphasizing the importance of accessible and affordable telecommunications services, he urged the Commission to continue its efforts in this regard.
In response, Alkasim Umar, the Director of Consumer Affairs at NCC, representing Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman, reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to protecting and empowering telecom consumers. He highlighted the importance of face-to-face interactions among the NCC, service providers, and consumers, as demonstrated by the Village Square Dialogue.
Umar also shared some of the consumer-centric initiatives implemented by the Commission, such as the introduction of harmonized shortcodes, toll-free numbers, and the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) service to block unsolicited messages. He stressed that information and education are crucial in empowering consumers and safeguarding their rights and interests.
The Director highlighted the role of telecommunications services in the digital world and the importance of consumer education in informing and clarifying various issues related to telecom services.