NCC Debunks Rumors Of Telecom Tariff Hike, Assures Public Of Consumer Protection

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) debunks rumors of a 40% hike in telecom tariffs, clarifying its commitment to stakeholder consultations and consumer interests.

NCC Clarifies: No Approval for Telecom Tariff Increase

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has categorically denied recent media claims suggesting it approved a 40% hike in tariffs for telecom services starting January 2025.

The disputed report claimed that the alleged tariff increase would lead to charges such as ₦15.40 per minute for calls, ₦5.60 per SMS, and a minimum of ₦1,400 for a 1GB data plan. Concerns were raised over how this supposed price hike might exacerbate the financial strain on Nigerians already facing economic challenges.

NCC Refutes Tariff Claims as Fake News
Speaking to reporters, an NCC representative dismissed the report as “fake news” and clarified that no such approval had been granted. The commission reiterated that any potential price adjustment would follow a structured process guided by its regulatory framework, as stipulated in the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.

This process involves comprehensive consultations with stakeholders and relies on a cost-based study to determine the economic feasibility of any adjustments. The NCC emphasized that consumer protection remains central to its decision-making.

Economic Realities Considered
The NCC representative noted that while the commission evaluates macroeconomic factors like inflation and exchange rates, no decision on a tariff increase has been finalized. The NCC board must approve such decisions after engaging in wide-ranging consultations with industry stakeholders.

Telecom Operators Push for Tariff Adjustments
In recent years, telecom operators have consistently lobbied the NCC for tariff increases, citing rising operational costs. In October 2024, Gbenga Adebayo, President of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), highlighted the economic pressures affecting the industry.

During the 93rd Telecom Consumer Parliament (TCP) in Abuja, themed “Optimising Data Experience: Empowering Consumers through Awareness and Transparency in a Consumer-Centric Telecom Industry,” Adebayo stressed the need for policies that ensure sustainable service delivery and infrastructure development.

Adebayo stated, “For the telecom industry to remain sustainable, Nigerians will likely need to pay more. However, these increases should be implemented cautiously through collaborative efforts with the government and stakeholders.”

NCC’s Commitment to Transparency
The NCC reassures Nigerians that no tariff hike will occur without due process and stakeholder engagement. The public is advised to disregard unverified reports and rely only on official communications from the commission.

As the telecom industry navigates economic challenges, the NCC remains committed to balancing the interests of operators and consumers, ensuring quality service delivery while safeguarding affordability.