Nigerians could soon face increased telecom service costs, with the price of 1GB of data potentially rising to ₦560 under a proposed tariff adjustment by the government.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, disclosed that while telecom operators are pushing for a 100% tariff increase, the government is considering a more moderate hike of 30% to 60%.
“If approved, this would raise the cost of phone calls from ₦11 to ₦17.6 per minute, SMS charges from ₦4 to ₦6.4, and 1GB of data from ₦350 to ₦560,” Tijani said during a recent television interview.
Telecom operators, including MTN and Airtel Nigeria, argue that escalating operating costs driven by inflation, naira devaluation, and economic instability necessitate the tariff hike. Karl Toriola, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, said the increase is critical for the industry’s sustainability.
Femi Adeniran, Airtel’s media spokesperson, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the adjustments would ensure long-term sustainability while benefiting consumers.
Minister Tijani emphasized the need to balance consumer protection with ensuring that operators can continue investing in the sector. He opposed the operators’ request for a 100% hike, calling it “detrimental to citizens who rely on telecom services.”
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) confirmed it is unlikely to approve a full 100% hike and plans to announce the final decision after ongoing stakeholder consultations.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has rejected the proposal, describing it as “insensitive” amid widespread economic hardship. NATCOMS President Adeolu Ogunbanjo warned of a potential class-action lawsuit if operators proceed without exploring alternative revenue options.
The NCC is expected to finalize the tariff adjustments within weeks, as stakeholders await clarity on the proposed increases.
