Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a proposal to increase telecom tariffs, marking the first significant adjustment in over a decade. The revised rates for calls, SMS, and internet data will take effect in January 2025.
According to TechCabal, Telecom giants, including MTN Nigeria, Airtel, and 9Mobile, have long sought tariff adjustments to address rising operational costs exacerbated by inflation.
Under the new pricing structure, call rates will rise from ₦11 to ₦15.40 per minute, SMS charges from ₦4 to ₦5.60, and 1GB data bundles from ₦1,000 to at least ₦1,400—a 40% increase.
An NCC spokesperson described the decision as a balanced approach, stating, “We have considered industry and public proposals to ensure benefits for subscribers and operators.” The official announcement detailing the adjustments is forthcoming.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has acknowledged the need for the price hike, citing the industry’s challenges.
The tariff review follows a history of strict price controls, including the NCC’s rejection of Starlink’s request to double subscription fees in October 2024.
The decision, however, comes amid economic pressures, with food inflation at 39.93%. Critics fear the higher costs may reduce internet access in a country striving for digital inclusion.
Despite this, telecom operators argue that cost-reflective pricing is critical to improving service quality and sustaining investments.
MTN Nigeria reported losses of ₦514.9 billion in the first nine months of 2024, while Airtel Africa recorded an $89 million loss for the fiscal year, underscoring the sector’s financial struggles.
Industry stakeholders, including ALTON President Gbenga Adebayo, believe the adjustments will foster long-term growth by attracting investments and enhancing service delivery.