The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has released practical guidelines to help subscribers manage their mobile data usage, following widespread complaints that telecom operators are siphoning users’ data.
In a statement titled “Smart Data Management Tips,” the Commission explained that while it and service providers have consistently dismissed claims of deliberate data depletion, rapid technological changes and evolving smartphone features often lead to unintended high data consumption.
According to the NCC, this knowledge gap contributes to frustration among subscribers and erodes trust in the telecom sector. The regulator emphasised that Nigerians can better manage their data by adopting simple strategies designed to minimise waste.
Nine tips on how to manage data
- Monitor data usage – regularly track consumption using built-in phone tools or third-party apps.
- Use Wi-Fi – connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible to conserve mobile data.
- Turn off automatic updates – disable auto-updates for apps and software; update only when connected to Wi-Fi.
- Restrict background data – limit apps from consuming data in the background.
- Download content for offline use – save music, videos, or documents when on Wi-Fi to reduce streaming costs.
- Enable data caching – store frequently accessed files or content locally.
- Disable location services – turn off GPS entirely or restrict it to essential apps only.
- Activate data-saving mode – use inbuilt data saver options available in most smartphones.
- Leverage data rollover – carry over unused data to the next billing cycle if supported by the service provider.
The Commission urged Nigerians to be more proactive in managing their consumption habits rather than attributing all cases of quick depletion to telecom operators.
It also reassured subscribers that it remains committed to protecting consumer rights while encouraging responsible data use in an era of heavy internet reliance.