Technology

Nigerians to Pay More for Mobile Airtime, Data as NCC Approves 50% Tariff Increase

Nigerians will experience a 50% increase in the cost of mobile airtime and data following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a tariff adjustment for telecom operators. This decision, announced on Monday, is aimed at addressing rising operational costs within the telecommunications sector.

Last week, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, explained the Federal Government’s rationale for rejecting a proposed 100% tariff hike by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Speaking on a Channels TV programme, Dr. Tijani emphasized that the government seeks to balance consumer protection with industry sustainability, opting for adjustments “between 30 and 60 percent” to minimize the impact on consumers.

Under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA), the NCC has the authority to regulate and approve tariff rates. Reuben Mouka, Director of Public Affairs at NCC, stated that the approved 50% tariff increase, though lower than the initial requests by operators, aligns with the Commission’s commitment to maintaining industry sustainability without imposing excessive burdens on consumers.

“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study,” Mouka said. “Requests for adjustments will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, adhering to the NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”

Telecom tariffs in Nigeria have remained unchanged since 2013, despite escalating operational costs for network operators. The new tariff adjustment aims to bridge the gap between rising expenses and stagnant rates, ensuring that telecom operators can continue to deliver quality services without disruption.

The NCC highlighted that the additional revenue generated from the tariff adjustment will support operators in enhancing infrastructure, improving network quality, expanding coverage, and providing better customer service.

The NCC underscored that the decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders across the public and private sectors. The Commission is committed to balancing consumer protection with industry sustainability, including the livelihoods of indigenous vendors and suppliers in the telecommunications ecosystem.

Acknowledging the economic pressures faced by Nigerians, the NCC has mandated telecom operators to implement the adjustments transparently and fairly. Operators are also required to educate the public on the new rates and demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery.

The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a robust and inclusive telecommunications sector that supports Nigeria’s digital economy. Beyond protecting consumers, the Commission’s actions are geared toward ensuring long-term industry growth and supporting local vendors and suppliers.

“As a regulator, the NCC will continue to engage stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that works for everyone—one that protects consumers, supports operators, and sustains the ecosystem driving connectivity across the nation,” the statement concluded.

 

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