The Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) has commenced moves to reconcile network providers and their numerous consumers so as to bring efficient and effective service delivery to members of the public.

Director, Consumers Affairs Bureau at the NCC, Mrs. Maryam Bayi disclosed this in Ilorin, Kwara state capital during the 73rd commission consumers outreach programme held at the University of Ilorin Multi- Purpose Hall, Ilorin.

She said the reconciliatory move became imperative so as to address the series of complaints ranging from unsolicited messages, deduction of call credits and irregular network services, among others by telecommunication consumers.

She said the outreach programme was established as a platform on which telecommunication consumers and service providers interact, with the regulator playing a conciliatory role.

Represented by Deputy Director, Consumer Affairs, Dr. Femi Atoyebi, Bayi also said that the aim of the programme was to address consumer-related issues and educate stakeholders on contemporary issues that were generating attention in the telecom industry.

According to her, "The telecom consumers are the target beneficiary of all activities of the Nigerian Communications Communication. The commission is committed to ensuring consumers get quality service, value for money spent, timely and fair redress of complaints and protection from unwholesome practices of some service providers".

Speaking on the topic of the programme, titled, "The Benefits of Broadband to Telecom Consumers", the NCC boss said the commission's mandate to protect, inform and educate telecom consumers and the increased emphasis of the industry on broadband had inspired the topic for the discussion.

She also said that the commission aimed at pursuing how ICT could be used to promote higher quality of life on a day to day basis.

Bayi reiterated the commitment to vigorously pursue the national broadband plan that would provide cheaper and faster internet access to Nigerians.

The commission stressed the import of broadband, saying a good broadband connection to home, office or business engenders "greater capacity to send and receive data far more quickly from your computer."

Broadband according to the commission "refers to high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than the traditional dial-up access. It also provides internet access without keeping the phone lines busy."

Bayi noted that broadband provides limitless opportunities for all in terms of education, leisure and entertainment possibilities.

According to her, other areas broadband could be beneficial include Healthcare, public safety and emergency response and economic and workforce development.

"Through broadband new business practices and models can be adopted which increase revenues, reduce costs and improve customer service. Being online allows businesses to be anywhere and can serve customers everywhere.

"Broadband also promotes economic development and revitalization through electronic commerce (e-commerce) by creating new jobs and attracting new industries as well as providing access to regional, national and worldwide markets".

She stated the determination of the NCC towards ensuring that consumers get quality service, value for money spent, timely and fair redress of complaints and protection from unwholesome practices of some service providers.