BREAKING: NCC approves 50% tariff hike in telecom services 

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The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has approved 50% tariff hike in telecoms services in response to rising operational costs.

This was announced in a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs.

The NCC said that the adjustmnent was in line with Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.

“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews.

“It will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”

The commission justified the increase, stating that “Tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators.”

It added that the approved adjustment was aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs, and assured that the delivery of services to consumers would not compromised.

According to the commission, the adjustment was also necessary to sustain investment in infrastructure and innovation through improved services, better network quality, and wider coverage.

“This decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors,” it added.

While acknowledging the economic pressure Nigerians are facing, the commission urged operators to implement the new rates transparently and improve their service delivery.

 

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