The federal government has announced plans for a telecom tariff increase, though it will not meet the 100% hike proposed by telecom operators.
The decision was disclosed by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during a stakeholders’ meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja.
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Dr. Tijani explained that the proposed adjustment aims to balance consumer protection with the need for telecom companies to sustain their operations and investments in the sector.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is currently reviewing the proposal and is expected to announce the new tariffs soon. Sources indicate the increase could be around 40%, though the exact percentage has not been finalized.
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If implemented, the adjustment could raise call rates from ₦11 to ₦15.40 per minute, SMS charges from ₦4 to ₦5.60, and the cost of 1GB of data to at least ₦1,400.
The telecom industry has faced severe financial challenges, with major operators like MTN Nigeria and Airtel recording significant losses in 2023 and 2024. The tariff review is designed to stabilize the sector and attract further investments in infrastructure.
Dr. Tijani assured Nigerians that ongoing consultations aim to reach an acceptable rate. “NCC will come up with a clear directive on how we will go about it,” he said.
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He emphasized that the hike would not be a 100% increase, as demanded by telecom companies. “The government wants to protect the public and also ensure that companies survive and continue to invest,” he added.
KANO TIMES