The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called an emergency meeting with stakeholders in Abuja to discuss the proposed 100% telecom tariff hike by mobile operators.
The meeting aims to bring together consumer advocacy groups and industry players to debate the implications of the price surge and determine the best course of action.
This move comes after mobile network operators requested a 100% tariff increase, sparking concerns among consumers.
President of the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, Adeolu Ogungbanjo, who has been a major critic of the proposal, confirmed the development on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.
He said, “I had mentioned earlier that there is a need for the NCC to discuss and iron out the issue. But yesterday, I was invited to the meeting and it will be held on Thursday in Abuja at 2 pm.”
Telecommunications companies have suggested a 100 per cent hike in service delivery, but the NCC is yet to assent to their request.
The Telcos said that operational costs and other issues, ranging from security to the protection of masts and other sundry issues, are what have led to the increase in service delivery.
Sola Ajulo, president of the Consumer Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria, also confirmed the scheduled meeting.
In his opinion, he said that the discussions would further help in shaping prices of service delivery in Nigeria, as he noted that a price increase is inevitable due to the nation’s economic challenges at the moment.
“It’s crucial that all stakeholders are present and agree on the terms, as this will determine whether the government will approve a price increase and under what conditions,” he stated. “A 100 per cent or even a 40 per cent increase may be too steep. Easing the tariff increase with measurable conditions could be a more reasonable solution.”
The NCC, as part of its mandate, would ensure that Telcos comply with regulations.
