The National Association of Nigerian Students has applauded the Nigerian Communications Commission, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, for introducing a refund framework aimed at addressing failed airtime and data transactions across the telecommunications sector.
The development follows a directive issued last week by the NCC and the CBN ordering mobile network operators and deposit money banks to implement an automatic refund mechanism for failed airtime and data transactions. Under the directive, affected subscribers are to receive refunds within 30 seconds, while operators and banks are required to adhere to strict service level agreements and submit to real-time monitoring to curb recurring debit-without-value incidents.
The student body said the framework marked a significant step towards strengthening consumer protection, particularly for students who depend heavily on mobile data and airtime for academic activities, digital engagement and day-to-day communication.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the National Vice President (Special Duties) of NANS, Ahmad Mallawa, the association said the policy reflected responsive leadership and a clear commitment to fairness and accountability in the telecoms industry.
“This landmark framework demonstrates responsive leadership and a deep commitment to consumer protection, especially for Nigerian students who rely heavily on mobile data and airtime for academic, economic, and social engagement.
For years, students have borne the brunt of failed transactions, debits without value, and prolonged complaint resolution processes. The new framework directly addresses these long-standing concerns,” the student body stated.
The association specifically commended provisions for automatic refunds within 30 seconds and the introduction of a clear Service Level Agreement for Mobile Network Operators and Deposit Money Banks, as well as the deployment of a Central Monitoring Dashboard to enable real-time oversight and accountability.
According to NANS, the reported refund of over N10bn to affected subscribers underscored the seriousness of the NCC’s intervention and demonstrated the tangible impact of the reforms on consumer welfare.
The student body urged swift final approval and seamless implementation of the framework to ensure that its benefits were fully realised by consumers nationwide.
NANS reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with regulatory authorities, saying it would continue to support policies that safeguard the interests of Nigerian students and the wider public, while encouraging sustained regulatory vigilance across the telecommunications sector.
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