The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Monday announced that pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecommunications operators, it would be granting approval for tariff adjustment requests by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in response to prevailing market conditions.
It maintained that the adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100% upward review requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
The NCC, in a statement issued by its Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, indicated that these adjustments would remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and that the MNOs’ requests would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as it is the Commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews.
In addition, the Director disclosed that the adjustments would be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.
According to the commission, tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators, hence the approved adjustment is aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised.
According to the commission, 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.
Recognising the concerns of the public, the spokesperson clarified that the NCC’s decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors.
In addition, he pointed out that the NCC had prioritised striking a balance between protecting telecom 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.
Muoka stated that the commission recognised the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and remains deeply empathetic to the impact of tariff adjustments. To this end, it has mandated that operators to transparently implement these adjustments in a manner that is fair to consumers.
It also mandated MNOs to enloghten the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery.
Additionally, the NCC reaffirms its dedication to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector. 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 the industry regulator, the NCC assures its readiness to 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.
