Jan 24, 2025, 1:18 AM
Telecom Companies in Nigeria to Hike Tariffs in 2025
Telecoms tariff hike in Nigeria in 2025 is inevitable. The NCC says the increase is necessary for operators’ sustainability.
Consumers may have to reevaluate usage.
Mtn, Airtel, Globacom
MTN 5G Commercial – Phot: MTN Nigeria
Telecommunications operators in Nigeria are on the verge of raising tariffs by 50% after maintaining stable rates for over 10 years since 2013 despite the escalating operational costs.
This signals potential challenges for consumers and businesses. However, the telecom industry would have it differently.
The increase is expected to address major challenges within the sector. One of those is the imbalance between operational costs and yields while ensuring that the benefits of connectivity remain accessible to all.
Telecom operators presented a request for a 100% tariff increase to the Nigeria telecoms regulator Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The regulator recently said that it has agreed to a 50% increase in current tariffs.
The approval will take ongoing industry reforms that impact sustainability into consideration the NCC noted.
Why Are Tariff Hikes Happening Now in Nigeria?
That question is on everyone’s mind with the new cost of living following the removal of subsidies. Infrastructure upgrades, including 5G network rollouts, maintenance, and spectrum licensing fees are cost escalators that weigh on telecom companies when economic disasters, subsidy removals and rising inflation rates play out.
The 2023 naira devaluation by the FG and the resulting inflation, was remarkably far-reaching. A series of petrol price hikes months later worsened the pinch of inflation.
Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu had introduced the naira devaluation as an attempt to eliminate economic decline and spur public finances.
How Nigerians Can Manage Higher Tarrifs
Consumers are likely to see increased monthly expenses in all plans. Budget-friendly plans may come with fewer benefits (e.g., reduced data limits or call minutes).
One way to get relief is by reviewing current usage and switching to plans that align with one’s needs. Most people would most likely consider alternatives and compare tariffs across providers to find the best deals.
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