Federal Government Introduces Adjusted Telecom Tariff Hike, Aims to Balance Consumer Protection, Transparent Pricing, and Industry Sustainability
The Federal Government has approved a tariff hike for telecommunications services in Nigeria, assuring that the increment will not reach the 100% requested by operators.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja.
Balanced Tariffs to Protect Nigerians
Dr. Tijani emphasized that while telecom operators had requested a 100% increase, the government aims to strike a balance between protecting citizens and ensuring the sector’s growth.
“You have seen over the past weeks that there has been agitation from some of these companies to increase tariffs,” Tijani said. “But it will not be by 100%. The NCC will provide a clear directive soon.”
He stressed that the government is working to create an environment that supports sustainable investments in telecommunications infrastructure while prioritizing consumer welfare.
Simplifying Telecom Billing
The Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, assured Nigerians that the new tariff structure would be transparent and consumer-friendly.
“We are moving away from complex pricing structures where main rates and bonuses differ,” Maida explained. “This confusion has led to misconceptions that operators are exploiting customers.”
Maida also noted that the NCC is committed to ensuring operators adhere to quality-of-service regulations.
Industry Players Support Increment
Representing Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran stated that the proposed tariff adjustments are crucial for the sector’s sustainability.
The government further emphasized its commitment to bridging infrastructure gaps, saying it will no longer rely solely on private companies for investments. Dr. Tijani highlighted the importance of high-quality connectivity, as consumers increasingly demand better services.
The NCC assured Nigerians that the finalized tariff rates would be announced soon, promising a balanced approach that benefits both consumers and telecom operators.
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