The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), a telecom regulator, has vowed that it would continue to protect and empower telecom consumers by continuously embarking on sanitization initiatives to prevent cases of online fraud and other cybercrime antics.

The Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta who was represented by the Director of Public Affairs of the commission, Reuben Mouka made this known DURING THE “NCC DAY” at the 36th Lagos International Trade Fair, held at the Tafawa Balewa Square Lagos recently.

He also stated that it will ensure that telecom providers continue to deliver quality services to consumers.

In addition, Danbatta emphasized that the commission will continue to treat the consumers as Kings and Queens with the understanding that without them both they and the service providers won’t be in business.

“The Commission is working assiduously with various stakeholders including you, the consumers, to see how more businesses can embrace digital platforms for delivering their services to the consumer. As a regulator, we also ensure we constantly inform you, the consumers on how to be protected to prevent cases of online fraud or eschew consumers falling victims of cybercrime antics while in their legitimate use of the Internet.”

He added that “Therefore, it is my pleasure to restate the NCC’s commitment to protecting and empowering consumers – whether individuals and corporate consumers – from unfair practices willingly or unwillingly orchestrated by the service providers. This is based on our regulatory mandate of ensuring that consumers of telecommunications services deserve to get value for their money and to be treated right as very important stakeholders in the scheme of things.

“Consequently, the Commission will continue to focus on excellence and efficiency of our regulatory activities and ensure increased connectivity to telecoms consumers through the deployment of robust infrastructure.”

 On plans to roll out 5G in the country, DANBATTA said “As you may be aware, the NCC is driving initiatives for the full commercial launch of Fifth Generation (5G) network in Nigeria.

“Already, spectrum licences for the companies that will roll out service shave been issued. Though the deployment will start from the state capital and gradually extends to other areas across the state, it is important to state that the 5G network will bring substantial network improvements, including higher connection speed, mobility, and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities to communications services in Nigeria. I am happy to inform you that one of the licensees has kicked off the commercial launch in Lagos.”

He also added that “More importantly, it is also our commitment, at NCC, to continue to provide a level-playing ground for operators to thrive, promote investment and delivery of innovative services to individual consumers, SMEs, and big business owners by ensuring enhanced consumer quality of experience.”

The forum and trade fair offered consumers the opportunity to ask questions on issues regarding general telecoms service delivery, and also make enquiries and complaints