Consumer Groups Kick Against Telecom Tariff Hike

A consumer group has vowed to fight the NCC’s recent approval of a 50% tariff hike for data, calls, and SMS, calling it unfair and harmful to struggling citizens.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% increase in tariffs for mobile data, calls, and SMS services, sparking widespread criticism from telecom subscribers.

The decision follows demands by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) for a 100% hike, citing rising operational costs due to inflation, subsidy removal, and naira devaluation.

The approval, granted under the NCC’s authority to regulate tariff rates, was announced after a meeting of the Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF). According to the NCC, the adjustment aims to address the gap between increasing operational costs and existing tariffs while ensuring the sustainability of the telecom sector.

A statement from the NCC explained:
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100% requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.”

It added that the approved rates would remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study. The commission assured that adjustments would follow its 2024 Guidance on Tariff Simplification.

Despite these explanations, consumer groups rejected the increase, describing it as unfair to citizens already struggling with economic challenges. The Association of Telecom Subscribers (NATCOMS) criticized the 50% hike as excessive and insensitive, arguing that a marginal increase of 5–10% would have been more reasonable.

The President of NATCOMS stated:
“Our members whose businesses operate online will face higher costs, and many may have to close down. This hike will severely hurt Nigerians.”

The NCC emphasized that the new rates aim to balance consumer protection with the need to maintain industry sustainability. It also noted that telecom operators are required to inform and educate the public about the changes while demonstrating improvements in service quality, network coverage, and customer support.

However, telecom consumer advocacy groups have vowed to challenge the hike in court, claiming it does not align with the interests of the average Nigerian.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG