The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved requests from Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to increase tariffs by up to 50 percent.
The decision comes in response to the prevailing operational costs faced by telcos in the country.
Announcing the decision in Abuja on Monday, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Reuben Muoka said that the adjustment aligns with the commission’s regulatory authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Dr Muoka said; “The approved adjustment is aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised.”
The tariff hike, capped at a maximum of 50 percent, falls short of the over 100 percent increase initially sought by some network operators.
However, Muoka emphasised that the adjustments will remain within the tariff bands established in the NCC’s 2013 Cost Study and will be implemented on a case-by-case basis in line with the newly issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.
He said; “Tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators.
“These adjustments will support the ability of operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and connectivity.”
The NCC’s decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders across the public and private sectors, as the regulator sought to strike a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.
“The NCC recognises the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and remains deeply empathetic to the impact of tariff adjustments.
“To this end, the commission has mandated that operators implement these adjustments transparently and in a manner that is fair to consumers,” Muoka said.
Operators are also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector in Nigeria, one that supports both consumers and the broader digital economy.
NAN