The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a Telecom Consumer Assistance, Resolution and Enquires (TELCARE) Centre at the Terminal C of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja.

The centre was unveiled as part of events to mark the 2023 International Consumers Rights Day which was celebrated by the NCC in Abuja last Wednesday.

The Chairman, Board of Commissioners of NCC, Prof. Adeolu Akande, who unveiled the initiative, said the launch of the TELCARE was the beginning of the helpdesk project expected to adorn some airports and other similar public locations across the country.

He said it was one of NCC’s strategies for expanding the channels of engagement with telecom consumers.

Akande said the project is a deliberate effort by the NCC to amplify its commitment to promoting the interest of consumers using various engagement strategies and initiatives to protect, inform, and educate telecom consumers.

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While expressing gratitude to the management of the Federal Airport Authority Nigeria (FAAN) for its support in ensuring the successful establishment of a TELCARE Desk at the airport, Akande reiterated that the platform would serve as an additional channel for consumers to make enquiries on consumer issues, allowing the NCC to provide advocacy on consumer concerns as well as create awareness regarding Commission’s activities.

On his part, the Regional General Manager, FAAN, Kabir Mohammed, said the management of FAAN was delighted to partner with the NCC on the initiative, noting that the passengers and airport users will have the opportunity to resolve issues bothering them while in transit.

Mohammed stated that the first-hand interface with consumers would not only expedite the feedback mechanism in addressing telecom consumer issues but also curb unfair practices within the system and further bridge any communication gap between the consumers and its regulators.

Also speaking at the event, the NCC’s Head, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Ayanbanji Ojo, expressed optimism about the expected success of the initiative.

Ojo noted that many consumers transiting at the airport were already taking advantage of the Desk before the launch of the TELCARE Desk to make enquiries or lodge complaints.

“This is a pilot project, and the Commission will ensure that the TELCARE Desk is established in more strategic locations around the nation.

“We believe that through adequate education, information sharing, and the provision of layers of channels for complaints and redress, we can safeguard the interest of telecom consumers and innovatively promote the prospect of more excellent consumer experience,” Ojo said.

The Star