The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) marked the 2024 World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) on March 15th, at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, with a resounding commitment to consumer protection, especially in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration into telecommunications services.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, delivered an address in which he underscored the significance of consumer rights in the telecommunications sector. Despite his absence due to pressing national matters, Dr. Maida’s message resonated strongly with attendees, including management and staff of the commission, telecom service providers, advocacy groups, esteemed consumers, and members of the press.
“Consumers are the lifeblood of any business, and their protection is paramount,” remarked Dr. Maida. “On World Consumer Rights Day, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding consumer rights in the telecommunications ecosystem.”
He elaborated on the evolution of consumer rights, emphasizing additional rights such as privacy, quality of service, timely redress, fair complaint processes, and accurate billing. Dr. Maida highlighted the theme of this year’s WCRD, “Fair and Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the Consumer,” recognizing AI’s transformative potential in various sectors.
“While AI presents immense opportunities, it also poses ethical challenges,” Dr. Maida emphasized. “Responsible AI usage is crucial to ensuring consumer trust and preventing potential issues.”
In light of this, Dr. Maida outlined key principles of responsible AI, including transparency, privacy protection, and mechanisms for accountability. He commended the Commission’s transparent auction for 5G services, which has catalyzed the growth of AI systems and services in Nigeria, while ensuring consumer satisfaction and economic growth.
Acknowledging regulatory challenges in governing AI deployment, Dr. Maida stressed the importance of collaboration among academia, industry, government, and society to address these complexities.
Amidst discussions on AI, Dr. Maida highlighted the NCC’s consumer-centric initiatives, such as the Consumer Complaints Management (CCM) system, toll-free helpline, Do-Not-Disturb (DND) code, and the Harmonized Short Codes initiative, aimed at enhancing consumer experience and protection.
In conclusion, Dr. Maida reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to Protect, Inform, and Educate (PIE Mandate) consumers, particularly in the evolving landscape of AI technologies.
As the world commemorates World Consumer Rights Day, the NCC is dedicated to safeguarding consumer rights while fostering innovation and progress in the telecommunications industry.
