- NANS Applauds NCC-CBN Collaboration for a Robust Refund Framework
The Nigerian telecommunications landscape is on the cusp of a transformative shift as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) moves simultaneously to deepen future-oriented connectivity and strengthen consumer protection. Through two landmark initiatives — a nationwide public consultation on Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) services and the development of a comprehensive refund framework for failed airtime and data transactions — the regulator is demonstrating an increasingly proactive, inclusive, and consumer-centric approach to governance.
In a public invitation signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, the NCC called on industry stakeholders, experts, civil society groups and members of the public to participate in a consultation on the opportunities, risks and public-interest considerations surrounding the introduction of Satellite Direct-to-Device connectivity in Nigeria.
The initiative represents a preliminary engagement ahead of any formal regulatory action and forms part of the Commission’s transparency-driven regulatory philosophy.
The Consultation Paper, issued pursuant to Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, is designed to help stakeholders understand emerging D2D service models, which promise direct satellite connectivity to ordinary smartphones without the need for traditional terrestrial infrastructure.
According to the Commission, feedback received will deepen understanding of the technical, economic and social implications of D2D, while guiding policy direction on whether and how new regulatory frameworks should be created.
Beyond technology debates, the consultation touches on broader public-interest questions: How will D2D reshape rural connectivity? What are the implications for national security, pricing, competition, and consumer data protection? How will it affect existing mobile network operators? These are among the issues the NCC hopes stakeholders will interrogate as Nigeria positions itself within a rapidly evolving global communications ecosystem.
All submissions are expected to be made through the online form embedded in the Consultation Paper, and contributions must be received on or before 23 February 2026.
The NCC emphasised that timely participation will be crucial in shaping outcomes that balance innovation, industry sustainability, and consumer protection.
While the nation considers the future of connectivity, the NCC is already delivering practical benefits to today’s consumers.
In a related development, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has applauded the Commission, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for developing a robust refund framework for failed airtime and data transactions — a chronic pain point for millions of subscribers.
NANS National Vice President (Special Duties), Comrade Ahmad Abubakar Mallawa, described the initiative as a milestone in consumer protection, noting that the framework followed extensive stakeholder engagement and has already contributed to reported refunds exceeding ₦10 billion to affected subscribers.
For students in particular, who depend heavily on data for academic research, virtual learning, entrepreneurship and social interaction, failed transactions have long meant financial loss, frustration and disruption.
Mallawa observed that the new framework addresses long-standing concerns that ranged from debits without value to delayed complaint resolution processes.
The proposed framework includes provisions for automatic refunds within 30 seconds of failed transactions, clear Service Level Agreements between Mobile Network Operators and Deposit Money Banks, and a Central Monitoring Dashboard to ensure accountability and real-time oversight. These measures, NANS noted, reflect global best practices and represent a decisive shift toward fairness and efficiency in Nigeria’s telecom sector.
The association urged expedited approval and smooth implementation of the framework, while reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement with regulators in the interest of Nigerian students and the wider public.
Taken together, both initiatives, consultation on Satellite Direct-to-Device connectivity and the refund framework for failed transactions — illustrate the NCC’s evolving regulatory philosophy: forward-looking, inclusive, and grounded in consumer welfare.
As satellite technology promises new frontiers of connectivity and regulatory safeguards ensure financial justice for users, Nigeria’s communications sector appears to be entering a new era — one where innovation and protection go hand in hand.
