The recent surge in telecom tariffs across Nigeria has sparked outrage, prompting the House of Representatives to step in. With major operators like MTN and Airtel implementing a 50% price hike on data and SMS charges, concerns over the financial strain on Nigerians are mounting.
The House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Minister of Communications to halt the tariff increase, citing the current economic hardship.
Hon. Oboku Oforji, a lawmaker from Bayelsa, initiated the debate, arguing that with inflation soaring and the removal of fuel subsidies, the timing of the increase is particularly harsh. He highlighted that Nigeria’s inflation rate hit 34.6% in November 2024, making it increasingly difficult for small businesses to stay afloat.
Oforji further explained that small businesses heavily depend on affordable telecom services. Even a 10% increase in telecom costs could slash their profits by 7%, potentially forcing many to shut down. He also criticized telecom operators for prioritizing price hikes over resolving persistent network issues, adding that with unreliable service, increased costs would only worsen the situation.
Supporting Oforji’s stance, Billy Osawaru, a lawmaker from Edo State, called out telecom providers for failing to improve network reliability despite increasing prices.
“In developed countries, consumers don’t have to own multiple phones just to stay connected. Here, people are forced to carry two or more devices because no single network is dependable,” he stated.
Telecom Operators Defend Their Position
Meanwhile, telecom companies argue that the price adjustment is necessary to sustain the industry. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), warned that without increased investment, network quality could deteriorate further.
Acknowledging public dissatisfaction, Adebayo maintained that the hike is essential to prevent a sector-wide collapse.
With public frustration growing, the coming days will determine whether policymakers can push telecom operators to reconsider their decision or if Nigerians will be forced to adjust to the new pricing structure.
