The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that it will approve tariff adjustment requests by Network Operators following the planned tariff increase following repeated requests by the telecom operators as well as in response to prevailing market conditions.
Penpushing reports that the Director of Public Affairs at the commission Reuben Muoka, in a statement explained that the decision is pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecommunications operators.
The regulator it is recalled had given the nod to operators to raise the tariff, while the adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
Penpushing further reports that these adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews.
The statement added that it will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024, adding that the tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing cost of operation faced by telecom operators.
Penpushing also reports that the approved adjustment is aimed at addressing the significant gap between operational costs and current tariffs while ensuring that the delivery of services to consumers is not compromised.
The statement added that these adjustments will support the ability of operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and connectivity, including better network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage.
Penpushing reports that the commission stated that recognising the concerns of the public, this decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors.
“The NCC has prioritised striking a balance between protecting telecom consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem’.
‘The NCC recognises the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses and remains deeply empathetic to the impact of tariff adjustments. To this end, the Commission has mandated that operators implement these adjustments transparently and in a manner that is fair to consumers. Operators are also required to educate and inform the public about the new rates while demonstrating measurable improvements in service delivery,” the statement said.
“Additionally, the NCC reaffirms its dedication to fostering a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector. Beyond protecting consumers, the Commission’s actions are designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry, support indigenous vendors and suppliers, and promote the overall growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.”
Penpushing further reports that the commission stated that as a regulator, it will continue to engage with stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that works for everyone – one that protects consumers, supports operators, and sustains the ecosystem that drives connectivity across the nation.
FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email penpushing@yahoo.com
