By Adenike Lawal
The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), has strongly opposed a proposed telecommunication tariff hike, describing it as “insensitive” and an undue burden on Nigerians grappling with economic challenges.
This stance was outlined in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting on Tuesday.
The rejection follows indications that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), may approve telecom operators’ requests for higher tariffs.
Although a source within the NCC recently dismissed rumors of a January 2025 tariff increase, telecom operators argue that existing rates fail to reflect Nigeria’s economic realities, citing inflation, currency depreciation, and escalating costs of dollar-denominated equipment.
The proposed changes would see voice call rates rise from N11.00 to N15.40 per minute, text messages from N4.00 to N5.60, and data from N1,000 to N1,400 per gigabyte.
Operators claim that tariffs have remained static for over a decade despite mounting operational costs and multiple government levies.
In the communiqué signed by Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo (National President), and Barrister Bayo Omotubora (National Secretary), NATCOMS criticized the NCC’s alleged approval of a 40% tariff increase.
They argued that such a move would further strain consumers and limit access to essential communication services.
NATCOMS also highlighted the impact of taxes, including an excise duty introduced by the 2020 Finance Act, which was suspended after public outcry but remains under legal dispute.
A Federal High Court hearing on the legality of this excise duty is scheduled for March 13, 2025, in Lagos.
While acknowledging the financial pressures on telecom operators, NATCOMS suggested alternative funding measures, such as listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, to address operational challenges without burdening consumers.
The association urged the NCC to withdraw any tariff hike approvals and called on operators to explore consumer-friendly solutions.
They warned that the proposed increases could exclude millions of Nigerians from accessing vital communication services, contravening the NCC’s mandate to protect consumer interests.
NATCOMS reaffirmed its commitment to promoting affordability and accessibility in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
