The federal government has confirmed that telecom tariffs will rise soon, but not by the proposed 100 percent, as suggested by mobile network operators (MNOs).
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, shared this update after a stakeholders’ meeting with MNOs on Wednesday in Abuja. He noted that consultations with the operators were ongoing, with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) set to approve and announce the new tariffs in the coming weeks.
Tijani acknowledged the operators’ push for a 100 percent increase in tariffs, but emphasized that the hike would be much lower. He added that the government aims to balance protecting consumers while ensuring that the telecom companies continue to invest in the sector.
“We don’t want the focus to solely be on tariff increases. We are also looking at meaningful connectivity and ensuring the growth of the sector,” Tijani said.
He also pointed out that the government would no longer leave infrastructure investments solely to the private sector, which typically invests based on short to medium-term returns.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, affirmed that the industry’s sustainability was the focus of the meeting. He echoed the minister’s statement, clarifying that the 100 percent tariff increase would not be approved, and that further consultations would take place.
Maida also mentioned that the NCC was working on ensuring that mobile network operators adopt clearer, simpler pricing models for consumers, addressing concerns over hidden charges and data theft.
Representatives from telecom companies, including Airtel, acknowledged the rising operational and capital costs and the need for tariff adjustments to sustain the industry and continue offering reliable service to Nigerian consumers.
