Performance analysis of telecommunications regulations in Nigeria: A quality of service approach

Abstract

The revolution of wireless communications regulations in Nigeria signifies enhancement in ICT innovation, investment opportunities, fair competition and inclusive growth through, strategic collaboration and partnerships to protect and empower consumers. The demand for data in the 4G (Fourth Generation networks) and 5G (Fifth Generation networks) is becoming excessively high and the solution is being investigated to effectively utilize the available spectrum at the physical layer across different protocols to speed-up bandwidth access from 2.5 to 10 times to support new high-performance applications (e.g. e-health, high definition video streaming, network gaming, e-commerce, e-government etc.) To realize the above targets the operators need to provide some form of Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) assurance. The 8-Point Agenda of the EVC/CEO of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) factored upon a tripod of Availability, Accessibility and Affordability of Service, the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the National Telecommunications Policy, the Strategic Management Plan of the Commission, the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy and other extant regulatory provisions are utilized to regulate telecommunications services and promote universal access in Nigeria. This paper reviewed the QoS Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) like The CSSR, DCR, SDCONG, and TCHCONG CSSR, MTTR, and Power Availability for 2G, 3G and 4G according to the International Telecommunications Union Standards (ITU-T) and NCC criteria. Literature review on QoS and congestion control analysis were conducted and the research gaps were identified for the development of effective regulations and operational excellence. Recommendations were made on the way forward to explore the optimization of electricity supply to base station using hybrid system, renewable and green energy to reduce operational cost and emissions.