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NCC approves price hike for phone calls, data services

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced on January 20, 2025, that it has approved tariff adjustments for telecommunications operators in response to prevailing market conditions. This is the first adjustment since 2013, marking a significant move aimed at balancing telecom consumer interests and industry sustainability.

The NCC’s decision comes under the authority vested in Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which empowers the commission to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecom operators. For over a decade, tariff rates have remained static, despite the rising operational costs faced by telecom companies.

Mr. Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at NCC, explained, “The adjustment capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100% initially requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.”

The approved adjustment will stay within the tariff bands stipulated in the NCC’s 2013 Cost Study and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. This is in line with the NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification issued in 2024.

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Mr. Muoka emphasized, “These adjustments will support the ability of operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and connectivity, including better network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage.”

The adjustments aim to bridge the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised. To achieve this, the NCC engaged in extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors.

Recognizing the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses, the NCC has mandated that operators implement these adjustments transparently and in a manner that is fair to consumers. Operators are also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.

“The NCC remains deeply empathetic to the impact of tariff adjustments and is committed to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector,” Mr. Muoka added.

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The NCC’s initiative not only focuses on protecting consumers but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the telecommunications industry. The commission’s actions are designed to support indigenous vendors and suppliers, promote growth in Nigeria’s digital economy, and maintain a telecommunications environment that works for everyone.

“This adjustment is necessary to sustain investment in infrastructure and innovation through improved services, better network quality, and wider coverage,” Mr. Muoka concluded.

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