In line with its mandate of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unfair practices, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has once again reiterated its regulatory requirement that is acceptable from Mobile Network Operators regarding dropped calls.
Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, restated this while addressing Journalists on the sideline during the Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAE), annual lecture/dinner in Lagos.
According to him, the Key Performance Indicator (KPIs) from the commission allows only one drop call rate out of 100 (1:100 ratio) from Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), which is obligatory for the MNOs to maintain.
The EVC explained that a number of cellular network subscribers are grappling with the issue of a frequently dropped call, hence the mandate to maintain only one drop call rate out of 100 (1:100 ratio).
“We said that out of 100 calls, only one is allowed to be dropped. That is the irreducible minimum for drop calls. As the regulator, we make sure these requirements are respected with regards to the set parameters,” he assured.
He further noted that dropped call has been the subject of several network performance studies and a major contributor to service optimization in a well-established cellular network.
Danbatta also added that the objective of the parameter is to provide the subscribers with an expectation of how successful a cellular network will be at retaining the signal throughout the whole duration of the call.
The EVC further disclosed that the NCC has the capacity to monitor the KPIs across the country, States, the Federal Capital Territory and local governments as well as ensure the MNOs adhere strictly to the guidelines.