The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved tariff adjustment requests from telecommunications operators, citing the need to respond to prevailing market conditions.
This move is aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs, which have remained static since 2013 despite increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators.
The approved adjustment is capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, which is lower than the over 100% requested by some network operators.
This decision was made after taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
The NCC has ensured that these adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.
The NCC has prioritised striking a balance between protecting telecom consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry. This includes supporting the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem.
The Commission recognizes the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and has mandated that operators implement these adjustments transparently and fairly.
Operators are required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.
The NCC reaffirms its dedication to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry, and promoting the overall growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
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