The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs, aiming to bridge the gap between operational costs and current rates for telecom operators. The adjustment, while lower than the 100% requested by some operators, is intended to support infrastructure investment and service improvements for consumers.
The Nigerian Communications Commission ( NCC ) has approved an increase in telecommunications tariffs, granting a 50 percent adjustment to companies operating in the sector. The approval, announced by Reuben Muoka, the commission's director of public affairs, stems from NCC 's authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, to regulate and approve tariff rates.
While the approval falls short of the over 100 percent increase requested by some network operators, the NCC emphasized that the 50 percent cap was determined after careful consideration of ongoing industry reforms projected to positively impact sustainability. \The NCC clarified that these adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and that individual requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, adhering to the commission's standard practice for tariff reviews. Implementation will strictly follow the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024. The commission highlighted that tariff rates have remained unchanged since 2013, despite escalating operational costs faced by telecom operators. This adjustment aims to bridge the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while safeguarding the quality of service delivery to consumers. \NCC stated that the approved increase will empower telecom companies to invest in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through enhanced services and connectivity. These improvements include better network quality, upgraded customer service, and expanded coverage. The NCC emphasized that this decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders across both the public and private sectors, acknowledging public concerns. The commission prioritized achieving a balance between safeguarding telecom consumers and ensuring the industry's sustainability, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers integral to the telecommunications ecosystem. NCC acknowledged the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and expressed empathy for the impact of tariff adjustments. To mitigate these effects, the commission mandated that operators implement these changes transparently and fairly. Operators are also required to educate the public about the new rates and demonstrate tangible improvements in service delivery. Furthermore, NCC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector. Beyond consumer protection, 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. The regulator stated its ongoing dedication to engaging with stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that benefits all parties, encompassing consumer protection, operator support, and ecosystem sustainability that drives connectivity across the nation
TELECOMMUNICATIONS TARIFF INCREASE NCC NIGERIA INFRASTRUCTURE CONSUMER SERVICES
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