NANS hails NCC on consumer-centric refund framework on failed airtime, data transactions

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has applauded the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for the development of a comprehensive refund framework aimed at addressing failed airtime and data transactions.

National Vice President, Special Duties, NANS, Comrade Ahmad Abubakar Mallawa, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, said the studdent body is glad that NCC was able to engage relevant stakeholders and prioritise consumer welfare, as evidenced by the reported refunds of over N10 billion to affected customers.

Mallawa said the landmark framework demonstrates responsive leadership and a deep commitment to consumer protection, especially for Nigerian students who rely heavily on mobile data and airtime for academic, economic, and social engagement.

He called for swift final approval and seamless implementation of the framework to ensure that its benefits are fully realised by consumers nationwide.

“For years, students have borne the brunt of failed transactions, debits without value, and prolonged complaint resolution processes. The new framework directly addresses these long-standing concerns,” he stated.

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NANS particularly commended the provision for automatic refunds within 30 seconds, the establishment of a clear Service Level Agreement (SLA) for Mobile Network Operators and Deposit Money Banks, and the introduction of a Central Monitoring Dashboard to ensure accountability and real-time oversight.

The students noted that these measures reflect global best practices and signal a decisive shift towards fairness, transparency, and efficiency.

“We also acknowledge and commend the NCC for engaging relevant stakeholders and prioritising consumer welfare, as evidenced by the reported refunds of over ₦10 billion to affected customers.

“This underscores the seriousness and impact of the Commission’s intervention.

“We reaffirm our commitment to constructive engagement with regulatory authorities in the collective pursuit of policies that safeguard the interests of Nigerian students and the general public.

“NANS stands firmly in support of the NCC’s consumer-centric reforms and encourages continued regulatory vigilance across the telecommunications sector,” NANS stated.