The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched Telecom Campus Conversation Forum as a way of expanding the scope of its consumer enlightenment programme.
The Commission explained that the new initiative was targeted at creating awareness for University students on their Rights and Obligations as telecom Consumers as well as sensitizing them on several initiatives put in place for the purpose of Consumer Protection and Empowerment.
At the maiden edition of the forum at the University of Abuja, the Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, NCC, Mr Efosa Idehen, gave an overview of the forum, spoke on two key areas.
Idehen pointed out that the areas, which were consumer affairs bureau mandate and the platforms of consumer education were the various consumer centric initiatives.
He added that, “we have several platforms for carrying out consumer education to ensure that consumers are well informed and adopt the use of various mediums to pass the message across to consumers.
“We have social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and twitter for consumer enlightenment and complaint management”, Mr Idehen said.
He listed some of the Commission’s initiatives to include Emergency Toll-free Number 112; the NCC Consumer Complaint Toll-Free Number 622; the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) Short Code 2442, the Regulation on Forceful Subscription and measures put in place to check cases of pre-registered Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards.
Earlier, the Deputy Director , Consumer Affairs, NCC , Haesat Lawal explained that the event will introduce the students to the initiatives of the NCC as regards to Consumer Protection, SIMs Registration, SIM – NIN linkage, Cyber security and how to protect themselves online amongst other things.
She further said ” It is our hope that today’s sensitization will encourage all of you to be more informed, educated and protected as a telecom consumer and will inspire you as – STUDENTS to amplify the voice of the Commission by informing telecom consumers of their rights and obligations”
“Our presentations today will educate you on all what you need to know about the role NCC is playing in telecom Consumer protection as well as other consumer centric initiatives and activities designed for the benefit of Consumers,” she added
The Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja who was represented by, Head of Department, Electrical Electronic Department, Dr. Evans Ashigwu appreciated the NCC for chosen the University as to launch its maiden edition of Telecom Consumer Campus Conversation in Nigeria.
Also, the President of the Student Union Government, SUG, Yusuf Dauda, also thanked the Commission for sensitizing students on their rights and obligations as telecom consumers and promise to extend same to other.
Dominica Nwabufo
