Following complaints of poor telecommunication services, unsolicited calls and other shortcomings of network providers, the Chairman House Committee on Telecommunication, Federal House of Representatives, Honourable Saheed Akinade Fijabi, has assured the public that efforts are currently underway to solve the challenges.

This assurance was given by the lawmaker on Wednesday during a discussion session with members of South-west Group of Online Publishers (SWEGOP) at the premises of CEOAfrica, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Hon. Fijabi stated that he is well aware of the problem of unsolicited calls and messages from network providers experienced by users of telecommunication networks, adding that he is also a victim of these unwanted correspondences.

 * Hon Saheed Akinade Fijabi

He said “I am equally concerned about this problem of unwanted calls and text messages from network providers. I buy my recharge cards from vendors just like everyone else so I experience the same frustrating network services just like everyone else. That is why I am actively involved in finding a solution.”

The parliamentarian who represents Ibadan South West and North West Federal Constituency however disclosed that the problem is currently being sorted out in the House of Representatives, adding that he will, in his capacity as the chairman of the telecommunication committee, ensure better network services.

When asked about the efforts made so far in solving the problems, Hon. Fijabi responded that the House is currently engaged in discussions with telecommunication network providers and the National Communications Commission (NCC).

He stated further that there is a bill currently on the floor of the House called the NCC Amendment Act which is supposed to effect lasting changes in the business of telecoms and regulate the activities of service providers.

He revealed that the NCC Amendment Act has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives, and he added that if the Act is passed, issues affecting telecommunication services will be solved, especially that of unsolicited calls and messages.

“The major amendment on the NCC Act is that of unsolicited calls. As soon as the bill is passed and the President assents to it, then it will regulate the activities of network providers and we all can begin to enjoy better network and data services,” he assured.

Speaking about the 2016 Budget, the All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker stated that the Budget will be passed as soon as the House resumes after the Easter break.

 * Hon Saheed Fijabi with Members of SWEGOP after the Media Chat