Telecom

Nigeria: NCC opposes telecom operators’ proposed tariff hike

Nigeria: NCC opposes telecom operators’ proposed tariff hike
Monday, 09 May 2022 18:46

Last week, Nigeria's telecom operators proposed a 40 percent increase in telecom service rates to offset their rising operating costs. However, while acknowledging that there could be justifiable reasons for it, the NCC is currently opposed to it. 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently rejected the proposed 40% increase in telecom tariff proposed by operators. In a release dated May 6, 2022, the commission explained that “cost-based and empirical studies” were needed for such a venture. 

Consistent with international best practice and established regulatory procedures, the NCC ensures its regulatory activities are guided by regular cost-based and empirical studies to determine the appropriate cost (upper and floor price) within which service providers are allowed to charge their subscribers for services delivered,” the release reads. 

The regulator reminded telecom operators that they must refer any tariff increase plan to its approval before any move even if there are justifiable reasons.  

It is noteworthy that tariff regulations and determinations are made by the Commission in line with the provisions of Sections 4, 90, and 92 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, which entrusts the Commission with the protection and promotion of the interests of subscribers against unfair practices including but not limited to; matters relating to tariffs and charges,” it adds  

The idea of a possible hike in telecom tariffs surfaced in mid-March. However, the NCC was officially notified by the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) last week. In its letter to the NCC, ALTON suggested a 40% increase in the SMS, call, and data tariffs due to high running costs. Subscribers opposed the suggestion deeming it inappropriate given the economic challenges they are facing. 

Isaac K. Kassouwi

On the same topic
• Algeria grants commercial 5G licenses to top three telecom operators: Mobilis, Djezzy, and Ooredoo • License award comes on stream as part of the...
MTN Nigeria launched a 100 million naira startup accelerator starting September The 12-week program offers funding, mentorship, and tech...
The MTN Nigeria Dabengwa Tier 3 Data Centre is more than just a physical infrastructure project — it’s a foundational investment in Nigeria’s digital...
Chad begins drafting a manual to implement its National Digital Health Program Aims to ease doctor shortages via telemedicine and digital...
Most Read
01

• Global coffee consumption projected to hit a record 169.4 million 60-kg bags in 2025/2026, up from...

Coffee: Global Consumption Expected to Reach Record Level in 2025/2026
02

In a West African financial landscape marked by tighter regulation of the fintech sector, digital fi...

In Five Years, Francophone Africa Will be A Major Force in African Tech –Régis Bamba
03

• BOAD releases CFA10 billion ($17.8 million) to support Boungou and Wahgnion gold mines.• Burkina F...

BOAD Grants CFA10 Billion to Revive Boungou and Wahgnion Gold Mines in Burkina Faso
04

Transport and food prices have been climbing steadily across Africa in recent years. In Côte d’Ivoir...

Côte d’Ivoire’s Fuel Price Cuts Haven’t Slashed Transport Costs–Yet
05

• Burkina Faso-based financial group, Vista Group Holding, has acquired a majority stake in Société ...

Burkina Faso: Vista Group Acquires Controlling Stake in Société Générale
Enter your email to receive our newsletter

Ecofin Agency provides daily coverage of nine key African economic sectors: public management, finance, telecoms, agribusiness, mining, energy, transport, communication, and education.
It also designs and manages specialized media, both online and print, for African institutions and publishers.

SALES & ADVERTISING

Benjamin FLAUX
bf@agenceecofin.com 
Téls: +41 22 301 96 11 
Mob: +41 78 699 13 72
Média kit : Download

EDITORIAL
redaction@agenceecofin.com

More information
Team
Publisher

ECOFIN AGENCY

Mediamania Sarl
Rue du Léman, 6
1201 Geneva
Switzerland

 

Ecofin Agency is a sector-focused economic news agency, founded in December 2010. Its web platform was launched in June 2011. ©Mediamania.

 
 

Please publish modules in offcanvas position.