NCC approves Telcos’ proposal for tariff increments, assures of enhanced consumer experience

*The Nigerian Communications Commission discloses it has approved the Mobile Network Operators’ proposal for tariff adjustments, ‘capped at a maximum of 50 percent of current tariffs’, to support their sustained investments in infrastructure and innovation for improved services, connectivity, as well as enhanced consumer experience in the telecoms space

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said it granted approval for tariff adjustment requests by the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in response to prevailing market realities in the country’s telecoms ecosystem.

ConsumerConnect reports the NCC Monday, January 20, 2025, disclosed the telecoms sector regulator approved the proposal for upward tariff adjustments by the MNOs pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by elecommunications operators in the country.

Mr. Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs, in a statement Monday, said the adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 percent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 percent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.

Muoka explained: “These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the Commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews.

“It will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”

The Commission also noted that tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operations faced by Nigerian telecoms operators.

On tariff adjustments, QoS for enhanced telecoms consumer experience

The telecoms sector regulator further said the approved adjustments are aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised.

“These adjustments will support the ability of operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and connectivity, including better network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage,” Mouka stated.

In regard to the concerns of telecoms consumers and the general public, the NCC further said that the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors of the economy.

The Director of Public Affairs noted: “The NCC has prioritised striking a balance between protecting telecoms consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem.

“The NCC recognises the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses, and remains deeply empathetic to the impact of tariff adjustments.”

Meanwhile, the Commission has mandated that network operators implement these adjustments “transparently and in a manner that is fair to consumers.”

The statement noted the operators are also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery to telecoms consumers.

Besides, the Commission reaffirmed its committement to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector, said Muoka.

The NCC stated: “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.

“As a regulator, the NCC will continue to engage with stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that works for everyone—one that protects consumers, supports operators, and sustains the ecosystem that drives connectivity across the nation.”

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