By Ogaga Ariemu
In efforts to consolidate its consumers enlightenment initiatives, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has unveiled Telecom Campus Conversation Forum in University of Abuja(UniAbuja) on Thursday.
According to NCC the new initiative is aimed at creating awareness for University students on their Rights and Obligations as telecommunications consumers.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Forum, NCC’s Director Consumer Affairs Bureau, Mr Efosa Idehen, reiterated that consumer’s rights and obligations are key to the Commission.
Accroding to him, “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 further listed some of the Commission’s consumer 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 expose students to knowledge in Consumer Protection, SIMs Registration, SIM-NIN linkage, Cyber security and how to protect themselves online.
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.
During his goodwill message, the Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja who was represented by Head of Department (HOD), Electrical & Electronic Department, Dr. Evans Ashigwu lauded NCC for targeting the University to launch its maiden of the programme.
According to him, “The programme is befitting for the wellbeing of the Students and University general.”
Similarly, the President of the Student Union Government (SUG), Comrade Yusuf Dauda, said he is overwhelmed with the programme and the choice of the UniAbuja.