Telecommunications companies in Nigeria have recently disclosed that the newly approved 50% hike in call, data, and other telecom tariffs will soon be put into effect for subscribers. The increase has been met with a mix of concern and anticipation, as it promises to significantly impact communication costs across the country.
According to reports, the Chairman of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Gbenga Adebayo, [/b]shared in an interview with Daily Post on Wednesday that telecom operators are currently undergoing the necessary regulatory procedures required to enforce the hike. This statement indicates that operators are in the final stages of ensuring all regulations are met before rolling out the increase to the public.
Although Adebayo did not provide a specific date for the exact commencement of the tariff hike, he did confirm that the increase would begin once operators such as MTN, Airtel, and Glo fulfill the remaining regulatory steps. He emphasized, “The 50% tariff hike will be implemented as soon as possible. We are currently fulfilling regulatory requirements for the telecoms tariff hike. When the regulatory process is finalized, operators will begin introducing the new tariffs. I can’t confirm if this will happen by February 2025 or earlier, but it will begin as soon as the steps are completed.”
This development has stirred a great deal of public conversation, particularly from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which has vehemently criticized the tariff hike. The NLC has expressed concerns over the implications of such a significant increase in telecommunications expenses for the average Nigerian, especially at a time when many are already grappling with economic difficulties. In a statement issued on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the increase as an unfair and harsh measure that places even more pressure on Nigerian citizens. He argued that the government is prioritizing corporate profits over the well-being of its people, pointing out its failure to protect citizens' interests. Ajaero further emphasized that the hike only exacerbates the financial strain on the public, making life more challenging for Nigerians who are already struggling with the high cost of living. The NLC's statement underscores the growing dissatisfaction with government policies that are seen to disproportionately benefit corporations at the expense of the masses.