The House of Representatives has directed the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to suspend the impending increase in telecommunications tariffs until service quality improves. This decision follows the adoption of urgent public importance moved by Oforji Oboku during plenary on Tuesday.
Background on the Tariff Hike Proposal
Oboku recalled that The Minister on January 8, 2025 disclosed that telecom tariffs would soon increase after a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja with Mobile Network Operators.
The hike was also justified by telecommunications companies based on factors such as the cost of investment, the need for better network infrastructure, and the increasing demand for digital services in sectors like education, banking, and healthcare.
The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have been advocating for a tariff increase for the past 11 years.
Public Opposition to the Increase
However, the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers has rejected the proposal, describing it as insensitive and an additional burden on consumers already struggling with economic hardship and poor network service delivery.
Oboku highlighted that telecom companies argue for cost-reflective tariffs, citing adverse economic conditions such as record inflation of 34.6% in November 2024 and losses caused by foreign exchange fluctuations.
Concerns Over the Impact on Nigerians
The lawmaker emphasized that before any price increase, telecom providers must first address their longstanding issues with poor service delivery. He warned that the proposed tariff hike would further deepen financial struggles for ordinary Nigerians, hinder the country’s technological advancement, exacerbate poverty, and widen existing inequalities, particularly affecting lower-income families.
He also stressed the importance of affordable connectivity for progress in crucial sectors such as digital banking, education, healthcare, agriculture, and e-governance.
House Resolution
Following deliberations, the House of Representatives resolved:
To urge the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the NCC to suspend the planned telecom tariff increase until there is a significant improvement in service quality.
Conclusion
The decision by the House reflects growing concerns over the affordability of essential services amid Nigeria’s economic challenges. While telecom operators cite economic pressures for the proposed tariff increase, lawmakers and consumer groups insist that service quality must improve before any price adjustment is considered. The debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing business sustainability with consumer protection in Nigeria’s digital economy.
