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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has not yet confirmed when the changes will take effect
The NCC has this week authorised a 50% hike in telecom tariffs, impacting call rates, internet bundles, and SMS costs across all mobile networks in the country.
The decision has been taken “in response to prevailing market conditions,” the commission said.
“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,” read the announcement.
The country’s operators had originally sought approval for a 100% tariff increase, but this was refused by the NCC.
Tariff rates in Nigeria have remained the same since 2013, despite rising operational costs.
This situation was exacerbated last year by the government’s decision to unpeg the national currency (the naira) from the US dollar. This decision, combined with soaring inflation, has inflicted heavy losses on the local telcos.
In its ruling, the NCC explained that it understood customer frustrations but has “prioritised striking a balance between protecting telecom consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem.”
As of December 2024, Nigeria’s inflation rate stood at 34.8%, and citizens have faced increases in fuel prices and electricity tariffs, among other price hikes.
Nigeria has four major telcos providing call and internet services to millions of customers: MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile, all of which praised the regulator’s decision.
“The increased costs have significantly impacted our bottom line. This adjustment is crucial for us to continue investing in network expansion, improving service quality, and driving innovation within the sector,” said MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Teniola stated.
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