National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
Nigerians are bracing themselves for a significant increase in the cost of calls, data, and SMS services as telecom operators push for a tariff hike. The proposed increase, which could be as high as 40%, is expected to take effect in the first quarter of 2025.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is reportedly considering the operators’ request for a tariff increase, citing the need to ensure the sustainability of the telecom sector. The commission has conducted a study on the sector’s sustainability and is expected to release its findings soon.
Telecom operators, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, have been lobbying for a tariff increase, citing the rising cost of operating in the country. They claim that the current tariffs are no longer sustainable, given the increasing cost of diesel, insecurity, vandalism, and other expenses.
The proposed tariff hike has sparked concerns among Nigerians, who are already struggling with the high cost of living. Many fear that the increase will further exacerbate the economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
“It’s unacceptable that the telecom operators are pushing for a tariff hike at a time when Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet,” said a concerned citizen. “The government should intervene to ensure that the operators do not take advantage of Nigerians.”
The NCC has assured Nigerians that it will consider the interests of both the operators and the consumers before making a decision on the tariff hike. However, with the operators’ persistence and the commission’s apparent willingness to consider their request, it seems likely that Nigerians will soon be facing higher call, data, and SMS costs.
As the telecom sector continues to evolve, Nigerians can only hope that the government and the NCC will prioritize their interests and ensure that the sector remains affordable and accessible to all.
