Why telecom tariffs will rise – Minister
By Dooyum Naadzenga
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani has announced that telecom tariffs in the country are set to rise. However, he reassured the public that the increase will not reach the 100% hike that telecom operators are currently advocating.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the ongoing consultations with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) aimed at determining a fair tariff rate. He stated that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) would soon finalize and announce the new tariffs.
“There has been significant pressure from telecom companies for a 100% increase, but it’s important to clarify that this will not be the case. We are committed to balancing consumer protection with the need for telecom operators to continue investing in infrastructure,” he explained.
The Minister highlighted the government’s new approach to infrastructure investment, stating, “We can no longer rely solely on the private sector for these investments. They typically prioritize short-term returns, which can hinder long-term service quality.”
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As he noted, the current discourse should extend beyond tariff adjustments to include the urgent need for meaningful connectivity and quality service. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, who stated that the meeting focused on the industry’s sustainability.
Both officials acknowledged the significant operational and capital costs faced by telecom companies. Dinesh Balsingh, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, represented by Femi Adeniran, also noted that these economic challenges necessitate the proposed tariff adjustments to ensure long-term sustainability and improved services for consumers.
As the NCC continues to refine its regulations, it aims to demystify pricing structures for consumers, moving towards transparency and simplicity in how charges are presented.
With these developments, consumers can expect further clarity on the proposed tariff increases in the coming weeks, as the government seeks to navigate the complexities of the telecom landscape while ensuring essential services remain accessible.
