By: Bayero Ade
The Federal Government has approved an increase in telecommunications tariffs to address the financial concerns of service providers while balancing consumer interests.
According to Politics Nigeria, this was disclosed by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, during a stakeholders’ meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja on Tuesday.
Dr. Tijani noted that while telecom operators had initially requested a 100% hike, the approved increase would be considerably lower.
“There have been calls from telecom companies for a tariff increase, with some requesting a 100% adjustment. However, we will not allow such an extreme rise. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) will soon release specific details on the new rates,” he said.
The minister emphasized the government’s role in ensuring fair pricing for Nigerians while enabling telecom companies to continue investing in infrastructure and service improvements.
“We must strike a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring these companies remain viable and capable of delivering high-quality services,” he added.
Focus on Transparency and Service Quality
Dr. Tijani stated that the government would work closely with private operators to develop critical infrastructure and improve connectivity across the country.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), assured Nigerians that the new tariffs would be accompanied by measures to improve service quality and billing transparency.
“We aim to simplify telecom pricing and eliminate the confusion caused by complex bonus structures. Nigerians deserve clarity in what they are paying for,” Dr. Maida explained.
Industry Perspective
Speaking on behalf of Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran, the company’s media spokesperson, said that the tariff adjustments are necessary for the long-term sustainability of the industry.
The NCC is expected to release full details of the revised tariffs in the coming weeks.
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