The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed a 12-month grace period for subscribers to reclaim unused airtime on deactivated lines. The initiative aims to safeguard consumer rights and promote transparency within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The proposal was announced by the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Aminu Maida, during a virtual stakeholder engagement forum held in Abuja. He was represented at the event by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama.
Maida emphasized the significant contributions of the telecommunications industry to economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation in Nigeria. He noted that the widespread availability of mobile services, combined with the flexibility of prepaid plans, has benefitted millions across the country.
However, he explained that the changing industry landscape calls for regulatory updates to address emerging challenges—particularly those that could infringe on consumer rights. One such issue is the inability of users to reclaim recharges once their lines become inactive.
Background
The proposal is part of the NCC’s broader efforts to modernize regulatory frameworks and improve consumer protection. According to the Quality-of-Service Business Rules 2024, prepaid lines that remain inactive (without any revenue-generating activity) for six months must be deactivated. If inactivity continues for another six months, the number may be recycled.
Key Features of the Proposal
- 12-Month Grace Period: Subscribers would have up to one year to reclaim unused airtime from deactivated lines, provided they can verify ownership.
- Audit Requirement: Telecom operators must conduct audits of all deactivated accounts and submit documentation on unclaimed and unutilized airtime.
- Transparency & Accountability: Unclaimed airtime cannot be monetized but must be accessible to the affected users through service options.
- 90-Day Compliance Window: Operators will be required to comply with the proposed rules within three months of implementation.
Telecom Operators Respond
Major network providers, including MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria, have expressed concerns and suggestions:
- Deviation from “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Principle: Airtel Nigeria noted that the proposal diverges from standard practice in countries like Ghana, Mexico, and India, where unused airtime is forfeited after deactivation.
- Lack of Procedural Clarity: MTN Nigeria emphasized the need for a clear framework outlining how subscribers can reclaim balances.
- Minimum Threshold Recommendation: Some stakeholders suggested setting a threshold below which balances need not be refunded post-deactivation.
Implications and Next Steps
The NCC’s proposal attempts to balance consumer protection with industry sustainability. If implemented, it would enhance accountability while giving subscribers a fair chance to recover unused value.
The policy is still in the consultation phase, with stakeholder input being considered. Final implementation will follow a comprehensive regulatory review.
Conclusion
The proposed 12-month airtime reclamation period represents a pivotal development in Nigeria’s telecom regulatory landscape. While welcomed by consumer rights advocates, it faces scrutiny from industry players. The coming months will determine how the NCC refines and enforces this policy to meet both consumer and industry needs.
