Despite the Nigerian Communication Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% upward review of telephone service charges, telecommunications companies are saying it’s not enough to cover their rising operational costs.
The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) claims the hike doesn’t fully address their demand for a 100% increase.
ATCON President, Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere, commended the NCC’s consultative approach but noted that the tariff adjustment is merely a step towards bridging the gap between operational costs and revenues.
The association reassured that the additional revenue will be reinvested to enhance network quality, expand digital access, and improve customer experience.
However, not everyone is pleased with the tariff hike.
Nigerian lawyer and activist Frank Tietie criticised the Minister of Innovation, Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the NCC, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission Lagos (FCCPC) for allowing the price increase without conducting a public inquiry as required by law.
Tietie argued that operators have been making money from unsolicited adverts and should invest in renewable energy to address rising costs.
The FCCPC responded by stating that consumer interests remain paramount and tariff increases must result in significant service improvements