- FG cites inflation and operational costs for 50% telecom tariff hike.
- NATCOMS, SERAP threaten legal action, demand reduction to 10%.
- NCC defends adjustment, balancing consumer protection with industry needs.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has defended the recent 50% hike in telecom tariffs amidst widespread criticism and impending legal action by advocacy groups and subscribers. Tijani attributed the increase to rising inflation and operational costs, stressing that the move was necessary to sustain the telecommunications sector.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that speaking during a budget defense session at the National Assembly on Tuesday, Tijani explained that Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure has historically been privately funded, with investments often directed to economically viable regions. “Telecom companies use night-time satellite data to identify areas of economic activity where they can invest,” he noted.
The tariff adjustment has drawn strong opposition from advocacy groups, including the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP). NATCOMS President Adeolu Ogunbanjo described the hike as excessive and vowed to push for a reduction to 10%. He warned of legal action should negotiations with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) fail.
Similarly, SERAP issued a 48-hour ultimatum to reverse the increase, labeling it unlawful. “The Tinubu administration and telcos must immediately reverse the hike,” SERAP stated via its official X account, threatening court action if the demand is ignored.
The NCC justified the adjustment as the first tariff change since 2013, capping the increase at 50%, well below the 100% initially sought by operators. According to a statement by NCC Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the move balances consumer protection with industry sustainability.
The regulator emphasized transparency in implementing the new tariffs and acknowledged the financial strain on Nigerian households. “We are committed to ensuring a fair adjustment that sustains the telecom sector and protects consumers,” the statement read.
Despite assurances, subscribers argue that the increase disproportionately impacts low-income earners who depend on affordable telecom services for daily activities. The tariff adjustment has fueled debates, with many Nigerians calling for more government intervention to ease the cost burden on citizens.
