Tariff rates in Nigeria have remained constant since 2013, despite increased operating costs for telecom companies.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a tariff hike for telecommunications companies, marking the first such adjustment since 2013. The increase, capped at 50%, is significantly lower than the 100% hike requested by the operators.
In a statement, Reuben Muoka, NCCs director of public affairs, said the adjustment was authorised under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which empowers the commission to regulate and approve tariff rates.
The NCC stated that the decision reflects current market realities and aims to address the gap between rising operational costs and static tariffs. The adjustment will remain within the tariff bands set in the NCCs 2013 Cost Study and follow the guidelines outlined in the NCCs 2024 Tariff Simplification framework.
This adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50%, was carefully calculated to ensure industry sustainability without compromising service delivery to consumers, the commission noted. It added that telecom operators are required to transparently implement the new rates and educate the public on the changes while improving service quality.
The NCC emphasized the importance of the hike in enabling telecom companies to invest in infrastructure and innovation, leading to better network quality, enhanced customer service, and broader connectivity. The commission also reassured stakeholders that it remains committed to balancing consumer protection with industry sustainability.
The tariff increase follows warnings from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) in December 2024 about potential service disruptions if tariffs were not adjusted. Additionally, the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) called for a tariff review by the first quarter of 2025. Earlier this month, MTN Nigerias CEO, Karl Toriola, publicly supported a 100% tariff increase.
The NCC said the decision was reached after extensive consultations with public and private stakeholders. It reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive telecommunications sector while ensuring the long-term growth of Nigerias digital economy.
The commission pledged to continue engaging with stakeholders to create a telecommunications ecosystem that benefits everyone, protects consumers, supports operators, and sustains the nations connectivity infrastructure.
