- NCC approves a 50% telecom tariff increase amid rising operational costs.
- Operators must ensure transparency and improve services following the tariff adjustment.
- The move balances consumer protection and industry sustainability, says NCC.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a request by telecommunications companies to increase tariff rates.
According to Reuben Mouka, NCC’s spokesperson, the decision aligns with the commission’s authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA), which empowers it to regulate and approve tariff rates for telecom operators.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that telecom companies had petitioned the NCC to review tariffs, citing increasing operational costs driven by prevailing market conditions.
The approved adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50% of existing tariffs, is significantly lower than the over 100% hike proposed by some operators.
“This decision considers ongoing industry reforms that aim to promote sustainability,” Mouka stated. “The adjustments adhere to tariff bands established in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and will be reviewed case by case, as per the NCC’s standard practice. Implementation will strictly follow the NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”
Balancing Industry and Consumer Interests
Mouka emphasized that the approved changes seek to bridge the gap between rising operational costs and static tariff rates, which have remained unchanged since 2013. He highlighted that the adjustments would enable telecom operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, benefiting consumers through:
- Improved network quality
- Enhanced customer service
- Broader coverage
The NCC, aware of public concerns, conducted extensive consultations with stakeholders before granting approval. “Our decision prioritizes protecting consumers while ensuring the sustainability of the telecom industry, including thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who are integral to the sector,” Mouka said.
The NCC has mandated telecom operators to implement the tariff adjustments transparently and to educate consumers about the new rates. Operators must also demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery.
“Nigerian households and businesses face financial pressures, and we are deeply empathetic to the impact of these changes,” Mouka noted. “This step is essential for maintaining a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications ecosystem, which supports the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.”
The NCC assured the public that it would continue to engage with stakeholders to create a telecom environment that balances consumer protection, operator sustainability, and sectoral growth.
For instance, if you were previously paying N20 as a tariff for N100 calls, you will now pay N30 for the same N100. If Tarrif was N50, it will now be N75.
