Telcos Rethink Recharge Rules, NCC Pushes New Plan

A new regulatory draft by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to change how mobile operators handle unclaimed recharges on inactive lines. During a stakeholder forum held on Tuesday, the NCC unveiled proposed guidelines that seek to balance consumer rights with operational clarity in the telecoms industry.

Speaking through Rimini Makama, the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, NCC boss Dr Aminu Maida emphasised that the forum was a crucial step in crafting fair policies. “As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, we must address emerging issues, including the fate of prepaid balances on inactive lines,” he said.

The forum, which included mobile operators, legal professionals and consumer rights groups, discussed a new Draft Guidance framework. It outlines procedures for handling unutilised airtime on lines that have been inactive for 12 months, often referred to as churned lines. According to the draft, subscribers will be given a 12-month grace period to reclaim their unused credit, provided they can verify ownership of the line.

Operators Face Strict Compliance Timeline

Legal and Regulatory Services Head, Mrs Chizua Whyte, underlined the NCC’s goal of ensuring both transparency and accountability. “This draft seeks to ensure that subscribers maintain rightful access to their purchased credits while operators gain clarity in their responsibilities,” she said.

A critical part of the draft rules includes a ban on monetising unclaimed airtime. Instead, service providers will be required to offer equivalent value through services like voice or data bundles. Whyte also stressed the importance of consumer education, noting that operators must run awareness campaigns on airtime forfeiture and the new policy framework.

Operators will be mandated to audit churned accounts and report any unclaimed balances. A 90-day compliance window has been set, with possible penalties for failure to comply. The NCC, in turn, will complete its audit reviews within ten days of receiving operator reports.

The NCC’s proposal reflects global trends in telecom regulation, taking cues from countries like the United States, India and across the EU, where transparency and service alternatives are favoured over direct cash refunds. By aligning with international best practices, the commission aims to enhance billing clarity, boost consumer trust, and provide long-term regulatory certainty.