The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a request by telecommunications companies to increase tariffs,Daily Trust reports.
Reuben Mouka, NCC spokesperson, stated that the decision was made under the Commission’s authority, as outlined in Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA), which empowers it to regulate and approve tariff rates.
Telecom operators had sought the adjustment due to prevailing market challenges. Mouka explained that the approved increase, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, is significantly lower than the over 100% requested by some operators. The adjustment takes into account ongoing industry reforms aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability.
ALSO READ: NIBSS: Over 64.8m Nigerians have enrolled for BVN
“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study,” Mouka said. “Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, consistent with the Commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews, and implemented in strict adherence to the 2024 NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification.”
He noted that tariffs have remained static since 2013, despite rising operational costs faced by telecom operators. The adjustment aims to bridge the gap between these costs and existing tariffs, ensuring service delivery is not compromised.
“These changes will enable operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation,” he said, “leading to improved service quality, enhanced customer support, and broader network coverage.”
Mouka emphasized that the decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders in both the public and private sectors, reflecting the NCC’s commitment to balancing consumer protection with industry sustainability.
“The NCC understands the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and remains empathetic to the potential impact of these tariff adjustments,” he added. “Operators are required to implement the changes transparently and fairly, ensuring the public is informed about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.”
The Commission also reiterated its commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive telecommunications sector. This includes supporting indigenous vendors and suppliers critical to the industry’s ecosystem, promoting growth in Nigeria’s digital economy, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
“As a regulator, the NCC will continue to engage stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that benefits all parties—protecting consumers, supporting operators, and sustaining the ecosystem that drives nationwide connectivity,” Mouka concluded.
