NCC Approves Telecom Tariff Adjustments to Balance Industry Sustainability and Consumer Protection
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA – January 2025 - The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved tariff adjustment requests from telecommunications operators in response to prevailing market conditions. This decision aligns with the NCC's regulatory authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which empowers it to oversee and approve tariff rates.
This development was detailed in a press release signed by Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs, NCC.
The adjustment, capped at a maximum increase of 50% from current tariffs, is significantly below the over 100% hike requested by some operators. The Commission arrived at this figure after carefully considering ongoing industry reforms aimed at fostering sustainability and efficiency within the sector.
The revised tariffs will remain within the limits established by the NCC's 2013 Cost Study and will be assessed individually through the Commission's standard case-by-case review process. These adjustments will also adhere to the NCC’s recently issued Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024, ensuring clarity and fairness in their implementation.
Tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite significant increases in the operational costs faced by telecom operators. The new adjustments aim to close the gap between rising costs and existing charges while ensuring that service quality and availability are not compromised.
The NCC emphasized that this decision will enable operators to continue investing in critical infrastructure and innovation, leading to improved services, better network quality, enhanced customer experiences, and expanded coverage across Nigeria.
This move follows extensive consultations with key stakeholders in both the public and private sectors. The NCC has prioritized balancing consumer protection with the long-term sustainability of the industry, including safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers within the telecommunications ecosystem.
Acknowledging the financial strain on Nigerian households and businesses, the NCC has mandated operators to implement these changes transparently and fairly. Operators are also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while ensuring measurable improvements in service delivery.
The Commission remains committed to fostering a resilient and inclusive telecommunications sector. Beyond consumer protection, the NCC’s actions aim to ensure industry sustainability, promote indigenous participation, and drive growth in Nigeria’s digital economy.
As the sector’s regulator, the NCC will continue to engage stakeholders to create a balanced environment that supports consumers, operators, and the broader telecommunications ecosystem.
Comments