PARAMOUNTCY OF CONSUMER WELFARE IN THE RESOLUTION OF CONSUMER CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY IN NIGERIA: MYTH OR REALITY

Abstract

Resolution of consumer, concerns and complaints in the telecommunications industry occupies a paramount place both in the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act and the regulations and codes made pursuant thereto. However, one of the greatest impediments to realizing this objective is non-disclosure of needed information by licensed service providers to consumers. Adherence to the provisions of the regulations is more in the breach, notwithstanding dilatory and circumlocutory provisions contained therein. This paper posits that until these challenges are proactively addressed, the assertion that ‘the consumer is king’ and provisions alluding to paramountcy of consumer welfare in the resolution of consumer concerns and complaints will remain mere slogans and sanctimonious effusions.