Data Depletion: NCC, Telcos Move to Improve Transparency for Subscribers

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Nigeria are taking bold steps to address the persistent complaints of telecom subscribers over rapid data depletion by introducing new transparency tools.

According to industry sources, one of the innovative solutions being considered by telecom operators is a “data calculator” designed to help subscribers track and understand how their mobile data is consumed daily.

Already, telecom operators have begun providing subscribers with daily reports showing the amount of data used the previous day. This move follows directives from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) aimed at improving transparency and consumer trust in the telecom sector.

Telcos Intensify Transparency Measures

An official from one of the telecom operators, who spoke anonymously because he was not authorized to comment publicly, said subscriber complaints about data depletion have become a major industry concern, particularly because it affects customer trust.

“An average subscriber believes their service provider steals their data once it finishes before expected, which is not true.

“Over the years, we have tried to educate subscribers on factors that may lead to faster data depletion, including smartphone functionalities and background app activities.

“Now, we are exploring tools that can show subscribers not only what they used but also how they used it, to further promote transparency,” the source explained.

The official added that telecom operators are also increasing awareness campaigns to help subscribers better understand the factors responsible for high data consumption.

NCC Audit Finds No Major Data Depletion Issues

In December 2024, the NCC revealed that it conducted a comprehensive audit across mobile networks and found no major evidence of unfair data depletion, contrary to widespread subscriber complaints.

According to the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, the audit—completed in Q3 2024—identified only minor network-related issues that the regulator is currently addressing.

“We had a hypothesis that there wasn’t actually a major data depletion issue in the industry and that it could largely be perception.

“We immediately carried out a billing audit on the systems of major Mobile Network Operators using reputable auditors. The exercise was completed in Q3 2024, and surprisingly, we did not find any major issues,” Maida stated.

Why Mobile Data Finishes Quickly

Amid growing complaints from telecom users, the NCC’s Consumer Affairs Bureau also released a sensitization notice outlining several reasons why subscribers may experience rapid data depletion.

According to the Commission:

Some mobile apps continue consuming data in the background even when not actively in use.
Automatic updates for apps, operating systems, and software can significantly increase data usage.
Location services and online advertisements may also consume large amounts of mobile data.
NCC Tips to Reduce Data Depletion

To minimize unnecessary data consumption, the NCC advised subscribers to:

Regularly monitor their data usage
Disable background data access for selected apps
Turn off automatic app and software updates
Disable location services for apps that do not require them
Install ad blockers to reduce unsolicited ads
Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible instead of using mobile data

The introduction of data monitoring tools by Nigerian telcos is expected to improve transparency, strengthen consumer confidence, and reduce recurring disputes over data depletion.