- NCC approved a modest adjustment capped at 50%, significantly lower than the over 100% increment initially requested by operators.
- CCF addressed misconceptions surrounding the NCC’s role in the tariff increase, emphasizing that the commission acted within its statutory mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.
The Concerned Citizens Forum (CCF) has come forward to express its support for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) amidst public backlash regarding the recent adjustments in telecommunications tariffs by network operators.
Eko Hot Blog reports that during a press conference in Abuja, CCF National President Opialu Fabian described the tariff adjustments as a necessary step to ensure the long-term sustainability and viability of the telecom sector.
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The CCF addressed misconceptions surrounding the NCC’s role in the tariff increase, emphasizing that the commission acted within its statutory mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.
The group highlighted that the NCC’s primary responsibility is to regulate tariffs while balancing the interests of telecom operators, consumers, and the overall industry.
“The NCC’s primary obligation is to establish a sustainable telecommunications environment that encourages innovation, inclusion, and consumer protection. The tariff adjustment aligns with these goals,” the group said.
The CCF highlighted the economic pressures facing telecom operators, including inflation, naira devaluation, surging energy costs, and rising expenses for imported telecom equipment. The group noted that despite these challenges, telecom tariffs in Nigeria had remained unchanged since 2013.
“In light of these financial strains, the NCC approved a modest adjustment capped at 50%, significantly lower than the over 100% increment initially requested by operators,” the forum explained.
CCF argued that the telecom tariff adjustments were essential to ensure the financial stability of operators and pave the way for infrastructure improvements, enhanced service quality, and network expansion to underserved and rural areas.
By addressing operators’ challenges, the CCF emphasized that the tariff hike would not only benefit the telecom companies but also contribute to the overall growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
The CCF highlighted several potential outcomes that would positively impact consumers, including improved service quality, increased network reliability, and expanded connectivity in rural areas.
These improvements are expected to contribute to the country’s digital inclusion goals and help bridge the connectivity gap between urban and rural regions.
“Consumers will enjoy better value for their money, while operators will have the resources to invest in critical infrastructure and innovation,” the CCF noted.
The group also commended the NCC’s efforts to ensure transparency by requiring operators to educate the public about the new rates and offer affordable service plans tailored to different income levels.
The CCF pointed out that tariff adjustments are a standard regulatory practice globally to reflect market realities and sustain industry growth.
It lauded the NCC for aligning Nigeria’s telecom industry with international best practices, strengthening the country’s position in the global telecommunications landscape.
“The NCC’s focus on supporting local suppliers and fostering economic opportunities for Nigerians aligns with national goals of self-reliance and economic growth,” the forum added.
Furthermore, the forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its commitment to economic reforms and digital inclusivity, which have created an enabling environment for the telecom sector to thrive.
“The NCC’s decision to approve the tariff adjustments aligns with the administration’s broader objectives of driving economic growth and innovation,” the CCF said.
The group called on all stakeholders, including operators, consumers, and the media, to support the NCC in its efforts to build a robust and inclusive telecommunications ecosystem.
The Concerned Citizens Forum also commended the NCC for its leadership and patriotic commitment to ensuring the sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
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“The recent tariff adjustments represent a balanced approach that considers the interests of operators, consumers, and the economy.
Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive telecommunications sector that will drive national development,” the forum concluded.
