The Nigerian Communications Commission has issued a strong warning to telecommunications operators, directing them to improve their service quality or face regulatory sanctions.
The warning comes amid growing complaints from subscribers who say telecom services have remained unstable and unreliable since the Christmas period.
To back its position, the NCC released a fresh, data-based report developed in partnership with Ookla, a global network intelligence and performance measurement company. The report shows how each telecom operator is performing across key network indicators.
The commission said operators with poor results must urgently invest in improving network stability, especially in reducing latency and jitter, as subscribers continue to demand better service quality.
According to the report, Globacom’s network is being negatively affected by high latency and jitter, which has led to poor user experience for its customers.
The data also revealed a widening gap in network performance across the industry, with some operators making clear progress in speed and reliability, while others lag behind.
MTN was identified as having the strongest national performance, with consistent high download and upload speeds, as well as relatively stable latency and jitter levels.
For Airtel, the report noted a drop in performance as the industry moves towards 5G. It said latency remains an area the network needs to improve, although Airtel was praised for maintaining strong 4G download speeds in urban areas.
The report also analysed the performance of T2, formerly known as 9mobile, and found uneven results across different regions. While there were occasional high-speed results, the data showed a wide gap in the operator’s overall national Quality of Service.
Ookla’s data further showed that Globacom’s latency and jitter challenges continue to affect real-time services such as video calls and online transactions.
The NCC said the partnership with Ookla reflects its commitment to data-driven regulation, adding that the report will be published every quarter to help consumers make informed choices based on independent data, rather than advertising claims.
A senior NCC official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the commission was ready to take firm action against defaulting operators.
“For the Commission, the gloves are off. The telcos will have to adjust or get a hammer. You need to see the report and you wouldn’t ask why people are not able to enjoy telecom services anymore. At this time of our telecom life? No, the regulator is now out to do its job,” the official said.
He added that the NCC was determined to eliminate accusations of bias through evidence-based regulation.
“We are driving towards a data-driven regulatory regime, so nobody will accuse us of bias. Although I am not supposed to talk officially on the issue, what I am telling you is the mind of the commission,” he said.
The official further explained that data-based regulation would improve transparency and service delivery across the country.
“Data driven regulation strengthens transparency and drives better service delivery nationwide. When we identify these service gaps, it helps the Commission make evidence-based policy interventions that attract infrastructure investment and ensure reliable connectivity for all Nigerians,” he added.
