The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its approval for tariff adjustment requests from telecommunications operators, as authorised under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA).
This decision comes in response to the current market conditions affecting the industry.
The approved adjustment is capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of existing tariffs. While this is lower than the over 100 per cent increase requested by some network operators, it considers ongoing industry reforms that are expected to positively impact sustainability.
These adjustments will adhere to the tariff bands established in the NCC’s 2013 Cost Study. Each request will be reviewed individually, following the commission’s standard practice for tariff evaluations, and will comply with the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification for 2024.
Since 2013, tariff rates have remained unchanged, despite rising operational costs for telecom operators. This adjustment aims to bridge the significant gap between these costs and current tariffs, ensuring that service quality for consumers is maintained.
The NCC believes that these adjustments will enable operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation. Ultimately, this will lead to better services and connectivity for consumers, including improved network quality, enhanced customer service and wider coverage.
The decision comes after extensive consultations with key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, reflecting the NCC’s commitment to balancing consumer protection and industry sustainability. This balance is crucial for the many indigenous vendors and suppliers that play a vital role in the telecommunications ecosystem.
The NCC is aware of the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses. To address this, the Commission has mandated that operators implement the adjustments transparently and fairly. Operators are also required to educate the public about the new rates while delivering measurable improvements in service quality.
Furthermore, the NCC is dedicated to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector. The Commission’s actions are aimed not only at protecting consumers but also at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry, supporting local vendors and suppliers, and promoting the overall growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
In a statement, the NCC director of public affairs, Reuben Muoka emphasised that the NCC will continue to engage with stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that benefits everyone – protecting consumers, supporting operators, and sustaining the ecosystem that drives connectivity across the nation.
