Nigerian Telecom Tariffs Set To Rise – Minister Clarifies No 100% Increase

“Nigerian telecom tariffs are set to rise, but not by 100%. Minister Bosun Tijani clarifies ongoing NCC consultations to balance consumer protection and industry growth.

Telecom Tariffs Set to Rise, But Not by 100% – Minister Clarifies

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has announced an impending increase in telecom tariffs but assured the public it will not reach the 100% hike proposed by mobile network operators (MNOs).

Following a stakeholder meeting with MNOs in Abuja, Tijani emphasized that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is still in consultations and will announce the adjusted rates soon.

NCC to Approve a Balanced Tariff Adjustment

The minister clarified that while some telecom companies have requested a 100% tariff increase, the NCC will regulate the adjustment to ensure fairness for both consumers and service providers.

“We aim to strike a balance—protecting citizens while allowing telecom companies to invest in the sector’s growth,” Tijani stated.

He stressed the need for the telecommunications industry to strengthen regulatory frameworks and create an environment that fosters long-term development.

Federal Government’s Role in Infrastructure Investment

Tijani also highlighted that the government plans to take a more active role in funding infrastructure development rather than leaving it solely to private investors.

“In the past, infrastructure investments were left to private companies who prioritized short- to medium-term returns,” he noted.

The minister emphasized that the conversation should focus not only on tariff adjustments but also on “meaningful connectivity” — ensuring quality service and expanded coverage across Nigeria.

NCC’s Assurance on Service Quality and Transparency

The NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, echoed Tijani’s points, stressing the focus on maintaining industry sustainability.

Maida assured Nigerians that the exact percentage of the tariff increase would be announced after final consultations, expected within the next two weeks.

He also called for simplified billing templates, stating:

“We are moving away from complex pricing systems where bonuses and main rates differ, making it hard for Nigerians to track charges. Transparency will be a priority moving forward.”

Telecom Operators Justify the Tariff Adjustment

Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, represented by media spokesperson Femi Adeniran, explained that rising operational and capital costs have necessitated the proposed tariff adjustments.

“Higher tariffs are crucial to maintaining quality service, fostering digital inclusion, and ensuring long-term sustainability of the sector,” Balsingh emphasized.

Conclusion

While telecom tariffs in Nigeria are set to rise, the federal government and NCC assure the public that the increase will be reasonable and not as high as the 100% requested by service providers. Ongoing stakeholder engagements aim to balance quality service delivery with consumer protection.