NANS defends NCC independence, compensation policy

ABUJA, Nigeria – The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has stepped in to clarify the origins of the Nigerian Communications Commission's (NCC) recent directive mandating compensation for subpar network services. In a statement issued Monday, NANS National Vice Chairman Ahmad Mallawa emphasized that this crucial consumer protection measure is the product of a deliberate, institutional process, not a knee-jerk reaction to public pressure or individual agitation.

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For the avoidance of doubt, this directive is not a reaction to any recent individual comment or public outcry. The process leading to this decision has been ongoing, with the Commission’s position and regulatory direction clearly established as far back as March 29, 2026.

NANS has stressed that the NCC's work on consumer compensation measures was well underway, with clear regulatory direction established as far back as March 29, 2026. This timeline is critical. It refutes any claims that the directive was solely a response to recent complaints or the efforts of specific individuals. For us in Nigeria, understanding the institutional framework behind such policies is vital. It reinforces the credibility of our regulatory bodies and ensures that policies are implemented based on thorough review and commitment to consumer welfare, rather than populist demands.

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It is therefore inaccurate and misleading for anyone to claim personal credit for a policy that is the product of institutional planning, regulatory review, and sustained commitment by the NCC to protect Nigerian consumers.

While NANS encourages active civic engagement, it cautions against the spread of misinformation and the personalization of national policy achievements. The NCC, as an independent regulator, deserves full credit for this proactive and consumer-focused directive. Attributing it to individual influence undermines the integrity of our institutions. This clarification is important for maintaining public trust and ensuring that credit is given where it is rightly due. The directive itself, addressing widespread complaints about dropped calls and slow internet speeds between November 2025 and January 2026, is a significant step towards improving the user experience for millions of Nigerians.

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While NANS encourages active civic engagement, we strongly caution against the spread of narratives that distort facts or seek to personalise national policy achievements. The NCC, as an independent regulator, deserves full recognition for this proactive and consumer-focused directive. Undermining this process by attributing it to individual influence diminishes the integrity of our institutions.