Editorial: Nigerians deserve better than this Telecom Service Mess

Across Nigeria today, one complaint is becoming louder by the day: mobile network service has become frustratingly poor. From dropped calls to slow internet speeds, many Nigerians are struggling to stay connected. Whether you are trying to send a message, attend an online class, run a business, or simply browse the internet, the experience is often stressful.

The major service providers-MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and 9mobile, have all come under heavy criticism from subscribers in recent months. The complaints are not isolated. They are widespread, affecting millions of users across cities and rural areas.

For many Nigerians, the problem starts with poor network signals. Calls break in the middle of conversations. Sometimes, you cannot even connect at all. It is common to dial a number several times before it goes through. This is not just inconvenient; it affects business transactions, emergency communication, and everyday life.

Then there is the issue of data services. Internet speed is often very slow, even when users have active data subscriptions. Videos take forever to load, emails fail to send, and simple web pages struggle to open. In a time when many people depend on the internet for work, learning, and communication, this is a serious problem.

What makes the situation worse is that subscribers are still paying high prices for these poor services. Data costs have continued to rise, but the quality of service does not match the price. Many Nigerians feel they are not getting value for their money. It is frustrating to buy data and still be unable to use it properly.

There are several reasons often given for these problems. Telecom companies sometimes blame poor infrastructure, power supply challenges, and damage to fibre cables. In some cases, they point to insecurity in certain areas, which makes it difficult to maintain equipment. These are real challenges, no doubt.

However, Nigerians expect more from these companies. These are large organisations with millions of subscribers and huge revenues. They should be able to plan ahead, invest in stronger infrastructure, and provide reliable services despite these challenges.

Another issue is network congestion. As more people use smartphones and consume more data, networks become overloaded. If telecom companies do not expand their capacity, the quality of service will continue to drop. This is something that should have been anticipated.

Regulation also plays a role. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is responsible for ensuring that telecom operators meet certain standards. But many subscribers feel that these standards are not being strictly enforced. When service is poor, there are rarely visible consequences for the operators.

So, what is the way forward?

First, telecom companies must invest more in infrastructure. This includes building more base stations, upgrading existing ones, and expanding fibre networks. Better infrastructure will improve signal strength and internet speed.

Second, there must be improved maintenance. Faults should be fixed quickly. When there are network outages, customers should be informed clearly and promptly. Good communication can at least reduce frustration when problems occur.

Third, companies need to match pricing with quality. If subscribers are paying more for data, they should get better service. Transparency in billing and data usage is also important. People want to know what they are paying for.

Fourth, the regulator must step up. The NCC should enforce quality standards more strictly and hold operators accountable. There should be penalties when companies fail to meet service requirements. This will push operators to improve.

Fifth, there is a need for healthy competition. When companies compete strongly, they are forced to improve their services to attract and retain customers. Policies that encourage fair competition will benefit consumers.

Finally, the voice of the consumer must not be ignored. Nigerians are speaking out because they are tired. Their complaints should not be seen as noise but as feedback that can help improve the system.

In today’s world, telecom services are not a luxury; they are a necessity. Businesses depend on them. Students depend on them. Even government services rely on digital communication. Poor network quality slows down progress and affects the economy.

Nigerians are not asking for too much. They simply want reliable calls, fast internet, and fair value for their money. The telecom operators have the responsibility to deliver this. The regulator has the duty to ensure they do.