TELEPHONE subscribers in Nigeria will now pay higher rates for data and airtime as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators.
In a statement today, NCC spokesperson Reuben Muoka explained that the increase, though less than the “over 100% requested by some network operators,” it was determined with consideration of ongoing industry reforms aimed at ensuring sustainability.
The NCC cited its authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve telecom tariff rates.
The commission clarified that the new rates will stay within the tariff bands established by the 2013 NCC Cost Study and will be reviewed individually as needed, in line with the NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification issued in 2024.
“Tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators”. the statement read.
The NCC stated that the adjustments are intended to bridge the gap between operating expenses and current tariffs, while maintaining quality service delivery.
The changes aim to support operators in continuing to invest in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers with improved network quality, better customer service, and wider coverage.
Acknowledging the financial burden on Nigerian households and businesses, the NCC emphasized that operators must implement the adjustments transparently and fairly.
Telecom providers are also required to inform and educate the public about the new rates while demonstrating improvements in service delivery.
As of December 2023, Nigeria had over 224 million telephone subscribers, according to NCC data.
MTN leads the market with over 87 million subscribers (38.79% market share), followed by Globacom and Airtel with 61 million subscribers each, and 9mobile with 13.9 million users.