By Cynthia Abah
Nigerian telecommunications companies have proposed a 100% increase in service tariffs, citing inflation and rising operational costs.
The proposal, submitted to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is pending regulatory approval.
MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, disclosed this on Arise TV, noting that while the request is essential for the industry’s survival, the NCC may not approve the full hike due to economic concerns.
“We’ve requested approximately a 100% tariff adjustment, but regulators are mindful of the economic realities,” he said.
Toriola emphasized that the goal is long-term industry sustainability, not short-term profits.
He highlighted ongoing discussions among policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders, including ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo, on addressing fundamental sector challenges.
The demand comes amid escalating costs driven by inflation, exchange rate fluctuations, and rising diesel and power prices.
Operators warn that without tariff adjustments, maintaining service quality and network expansion will be difficult.
Earlier this week, ALTON cautioned that continued financial strain could force some operators to scale back services, further limiting telecom access.
Adebayo stressed that tariffs have remained unchanged for over a decade, making the industry unsustainable.
Telecom associations have urged the Federal Government to engage stakeholders in developing a balanced framework that ensures both consumer affordability and industry viability.
Operators warn that failure to act could threaten the survival of Nigeria’s telecom sector.
