For the first time in nearly eleven years, telecom tariffs in Nigeria are set to rise following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% increase in voice and data services. The decision, aimed at ensuring the financial sustainability of telecom providers, comes after months of discussions between regulators and operators.
Why Are Tariffs Increasing?
Nigeria’s telecom sector has faced mounting financial strain, particularly after the naira’s recent devaluation. Despite persistent inflation, the NCC had previously resisted adjusting telecom prices, but rising operational costs left many service providers struggling to maintain profitability.
Speaking anonymously to TechCabal, a telecom executive revealed that operators initially requested a 100% price hike as far back as October 2024. However, the NCC opted for a more measured approach, approving a capped 50% increase to balance industry stability with consumer protection.
A Delicate Balancing Act
In a statement, the NCC emphasized the importance of maintaining an affordable telecom market while also supporting industry players and the thousands of vendors reliant on the sector.
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100% requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability,” the statement read.
With this adjustment, Nigerian telecom users can expect noticeable bill changes in the coming months. The big question is how consumers will react to the higher costs in an already challenging economic climate.
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