NCC Debunks Tariff Hike Rumours, Assures Subscribers of Stability in Telecom Industry

Reports of an impending tariff hike in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector have been firmly dismissed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The regulatory body described the claims, which suggested increases in call, SMS, and data charges starting January 2025, as baseless and misleading.

A senior NCC official clarified on Sunday that the Commission operates under a transparent framework established by the Nigerian Communications Act, which mandates due process and stakeholder consultation before any tariff adjustments are approved. “These rumours are baseless and misleading. The NCC is committed to protecting consumers and ensuring that any potential tariff changes are communicated clearly and transparently. Subscribers can rest assured that no tariff increase has been approved,” the official stated.

NCC Urges Accuracy in Reporting

In its statement, the NCC called on journalists and industry stakeholders to verify information before dissemination. It emphasized the importance of accurate reportage in preventing public panic and the spread of falsehoods. The Commission reassured the public that it remains committed to consumer protection and ensuring stability within the telecommunications industry.

Updates on tariffs and other industry-related matters will be communicated through official NCC channels to maintain transparency and trust.

Stakeholders Address Concerns

The Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria (ATCIS) also weighed in on the controversy. ATCIS National President, Mr. Sina Bilesanmi, stated that clarification had been sought directly from the NCC. He confirmed that the reports of increased charges for calls, SMS, and data were unfounded.

“The NCC confirmed there is no truth to claims of call charges increasing to N15.40 per minute from N11, SMS charges rising to N5.60, or 1GB of data costing N1,400 instead of N1,000. Any changes in tariffs, if necessary, will follow due process and involve input from all stakeholders, including ATCIS. There is no cause for alarm,” Bilesanmi affirmed.

Both the NCC and ATCIS urged subscribers to rely on verified information from credible channels to avoid falling prey to misinformation.

Mounting Pressure for Tariff Review

While the NCC has denied the current rumours, the conversation around tariff hikes has been a contentious issue for some time. Major telecom operators, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, have consistently called for a review of tariff rates, citing economic challenges such as inflation, currency devaluation, and rising diesel prices for powering base transceiver stations.

MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, warned that without a tariff increase, the financial viability of the telecommunications sector could be jeopardized. Similarly, 9mobile CEO, Obafemi Banigbe, highlighted the severe impact of the naira devaluation on the industry, advocating for a free-market approach to pricing telecom services.

Government and Regulatory Stance

Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, recently hinted at the possibility of a tariff hike while emphasizing the need for improved service quality. Speaking on a television program, he revealed that a study on the sector’s sustainability is underway, with results expected soon.

“Yes, we think there may be a need for the hike, but lots more needs to be done as a country to ensure that the sector is competitive. Beyond just supporting operators, the government must invest in digital infrastructure,” Tijani noted.

Conclusion

As discussions around potential tariff adjustments continue, the NCC’s dismissal of the current rumours provides some reassurance to consumers. Subscribers are encouraged to stay informed through official sources as the sector navigates its economic challenges.