Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has cautioned Nigerians not to buy or use substandard and counterfeit handsets, because such handsets pose health risks to users and are identified as one of the reasons for poor quality of service in the telecommunication networks.
Professor Umaru Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, gave the caution in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital while speaking at NCC Day at the ongoing 2015 Port Harcourt International Trade Fair.
The fair was organised by the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA).
Danbatta said, “Consumers also have a role to play on the issues bordering on quality of service. The use of sub-standard and counterfeit devices has been identified as one of the reasons for poor quality of service. Today, there are different types of handsets in the market.
“Some of these devices did not meet international benchmarks for safety and other requirements and were dropped in other parts of the world. They do not only pose health risks to the users, but also degrade the quality of service in the networks for others.
“We urge all telecom consumers to be wary of the source of telecom devices they use. The commission has a list of approved handsets on its website. These are handset models ascertained to meet international standards and do not affect the quality of services in the networks.”
The EVC, who was represented by Dr. Femi Ayetubi, NCC’s Deputy Director, Consumer Affairs, called for partnership with members of the public to protect telecom infrastructure, saying the vandalization of telecom facilities affects the quality of service being provided in any given location.
-Leadership