The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecommunications services, impacting network providers such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile.
This adjustment will see significant changes in call, SMS, and data costs, marking the first major review since 2013.
With the new tariff, the average cost of phone calls will rise from N11 to N16.50 per minute, while SMS charges will increase from N4 to N6. Similarly, the price of a 1GB data bundle will jump from N287.5 to N431.25.
The NCC stated that the adjustment, though capped at 50 per cent of existing tariffs, was a response to the growing operational costs faced by telecom operators.
It also clarified that some operators had initially proposed over a 100 per cent hike, which was rejected.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 20, 2025, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, explained that the tariff adjustment was essential for the sustainability of the telecommunications sector.
“Tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite increasing operational costs. The approved adjustment is aimed at addressing the significant gap between these costs and current tariffs while ensuring that service delivery to consumers is not compromised,” Muoka said.
The NCC assured the public that the tariff hike would remain within the bounds of the 2013 NCC Cost Study and adhere to the 2024 NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification.
Operators are required to implement the new rates transparently, educate consumers, and demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery, including better network quality and expanded coverage.
Muoka added, “These adjustments will support operators’ ability to invest in infrastructure and innovation, which will ultimately benefit consumers through improved connectivity and enhanced customer service.”
The Commission emphasised that it reached this decision after extensive consultations with key stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
It pledged to balance the interests of telecom consumers with the need to sustain the sector, which employs thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers.
“The NCC recognises the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and remains empathetic to the impact of these tariff adjustments.
However, the decision was necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the telecommunications industry,” Muoka said.
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