The Nigerian Senate has asked the federal government to address the sharp increase in data prices across the country.
The appeal was made during Wednesday’s plenary, following concerns raised by lawmakers about the financial impact on young Nigerians who depend on the internet for work and daily activities.
The motion, introduced by Asuquo Ekpeyong, a senator from Cross River South, sparked debate about the economic hardship caused by the sudden rise in data tariffs.
According to Ekpeyong, many young people rely on affordable internet for income-generating activities such as freelancing, digital marketing, content creation, and software development.
He warned that the increased cost of data could make life more difficult for them.
Lawmakers expressed worry that telecom companies raised data costs by as much as 200%, passing the financial burden onto users instead of tackling operational challenges.
Senators noted that young Nigerians have embraced the digital economy, and with internet access now more expensive, their livelihoods are under threat.
Victor Umeh, a senator representing Anambra Central, criticized not only data price hikes but also rising telecom charges and Pay TV tariffs.
He accused regulators of failing to protect consumers and emphasized that Nigerians are struggling to keep up with these costs.
Sadiq Umar, from Kwara North, added that the price surge was hurting young Nigerians, who make up a large part of the country’s workforce.
He called for immediate government intervention to prevent the situation from worsening.
Following the discussion, the Senate urged the government to engage telecom providers to review and reduce data tariffs.
Lawmakers also recommended that the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy create a framework to ensure affordable internet access.
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