…advocates stronger consumer protection, regulatory oversight

The Oodua Youth Coalition (OYC), a Nigerian youth and civil society organisation, has expressed concerns over the operations of some foreign-owned telecommunications and broadcasting companies in Nigeria, while calling for greater support for indigenous service providers and stronger consumer protection measures.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the group’s Vice President (Administration) and former Assistant Secretary-General of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Olatunji Adejuwon, the coalition urged stakeholders to prioritise policies and initiatives that strengthen local industry and enhance value for consumers.

The group raised concerns about pricing, service delivery, and consumer experience within parts of the telecommunications and pay-TV sectors, particularly referencing MTN and MultiChoice, operator of DStv.

According to the statement, some subscribers have expressed dissatisfaction with data consumption patterns and subscription models, prompting calls for greater transparency and improved customer engagement. 

The coalition also encouraged regulators to continue monitoring industry practices to ensure fairness and accountability.

The statement further urged telecommunications and broadcasting companies operating in Nigeria to maintain high standards of service delivery and customer care, while emphasising the importance of protecting consumer interests.

In addition, the coalition called on indigenous operators, including Globacom (Glo) and Airtel Nigeria, to continue investing in infrastructure, expand network coverage, and improve service quality in order to remain competitive and better serve Nigerian consumers.

The group also appealed to the Federal Government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to strengthen consumer protection frameworks and promote a business environment that supports both investment and fair market practices.

The statement concluded with a call for collaboration among youth groups, labour organisations, regulators, and industry stakeholders to advance policies that encourage economic growth, consumer welfare, and sustainable development within Nigeria’s digital economy.