FG: Telecom companies to raise tariffs, but not by 100%
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has announced that telecommunication tariffs in Nigeria will soon rise, but not by 100 percent.
Speaking after a stakeholders’ meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja on Wednesday, Tijani mentioned that consultations and engagements are ongoing. The MNOs have proposed a 100 percent increase in tariffs.
The Minister clarified that while the increase is expected, it will not be as high as the proposed 100 percent. He added that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) would soon finalize and announce the new tariffs.
Tijani emphasized the government’s intent to strike a balance that protects consumers while ensuring that MNOs continue to make substantial investments in the sector.
He further stated that the telecommunication industry must be properly regulated to foster growth. According to Tijani, the government will no longer leave the infrastructure investments solely to private companies, as they typically focus on short- to medium-term returns.
“The focus should not only be on tariff increases. Globally, the conversation is shifting towards meaningful connectivity and providing access to quality services,” he said. He also noted that consumers may not fully understand the need for infrastructure investments required to deliver these services.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, shared that the meeting aimed to address the sustainability of the industry. He confirmed that, as the Minister mentioned, a 100 percent increase is unlikely.
Maida noted that the NCC was still engaging with stakeholders, and Nigerians would be informed within a week or two about the final decision. The NCC is also ensuring compliance with service quality standards.
He also urged MNOs to simplify their billing structures to make charges for voice calls, SMS, and data usage clearer to consumers. The current complex pricing system, with bonuses and separate rates, often leads to confusion and complaints of data theft.
Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, represented by Femi Adeniran, explained that the rising operational and capital costs have made the proposed tariff adjustments necessary. The goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector while improving connectivity and fostering digital inclusion for Nigerian consumers.
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