Telecommunications companies in Nigeria are urging the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to approve a hike in tariffs for voice and data services to counteract the challenging economic environment impacting the sector.
Telecom operators argue that increasing tariffs is essential to mitigate ongoing revenue losses and stabilize the sector. This move is crucial for maintaining the industry’s contribution to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The request for a tariff adjustment was reiterated just two months after an initial plea, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) organized a special event in Lagos where this issue was a central topic. ATCON President Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere emphasized the importance of cooperation between telecom operators and the NCC.
Emoekpere acknowledged the presence of NCC’s Executive Vice-Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maina, and highlighted the significance of such gatherings for facilitating dialogue among industry stakeholders.
Major telecom players like MTN Nigeria and Glo stressed that tariff increases are vital for sustaining the sector’s growth amid economic downturns. They warned that without this adjustment, the industry might struggle to maintain its economic contribution and innovation levels.
Emoekpere urged the NCC to align regulatory policies with the current economic realities of the telecom sector. He called on the commission to consider the operators’ plight and approve the requested tariff adjustments to ensure the industry’s health and viability.
