The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% tariff adjustment for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in response to rising operational costs in the telecommunications industry.
As a reason, Dr. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, in a statement on Monday, said the decision was in line with the commission’s regulatory powers under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA).
Dr. Muoka explained that the adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50%, is significantly lower than the over 100% increase requested by some operators.
“This adjustment remains within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, adhering strictly to the NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024,” he said.
He highlighted that tariffs have remained static since 2013 despite rising operational costs, and the approved adjustment is necessary to close the gap between these costs and current tariffs.
The tariff adjustments are designed to support operators in maintaining and expanding infrastructure and innovation. Dr. Muoka emphasized:
“These adjustments will enable operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved network quality, enhanced customer service, and expanded coverage across the country.”
The NCC assured the public that the decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
“The NCC prioritizes balancing the protection of telecom consumers with ensuring the industry’s sustainability, which includes supporting thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers critical to the telecommunications ecosystem,” Muoka stated.
He added, “The commission remains deeply empathetic to the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses. Operators have been mandated to implement the adjustments transparently and fairly, while also educating the public about the new rates and demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.”
Dr. Muoka reaffirmed NCC’s commitment to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector.
“Beyond protecting consumers, the commission’s actions are designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry, support indigenous vendors and suppliers, and promote the overall growth of Nigeria’s digital economy,” he said.
The NCC pledged to continue engaging stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that works for all, protecting consumers, supporting operators, and sustaining the ecosystem driving connectivity across Nigeria.
