Telecommunication companies in Nigeria have announced plans to implement a 50% increase in call, data, and other service tariffs, following recent approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), confirmed in an interview with Daily Post that operators such as MTN, Airtel, and Glo are currently fulfilling regulatory requirements to roll out the tariff hike.
While Adebayo did not provide a specific date for implementation, he assured that the process is progressing swiftly.
“The 50% tariff hike will be implemented as soon as possible. We are currently fulfilling regulatory requirements for the telecoms tariff hike,” he said.
“When the regulatory process is finalized, operators will start introducing the new tariff. I can’t confirm if this will happen by February 2025 or earlier, but it will begin as soon as the steps are completed,” Adebayo added.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the tariff increase, describing it as a harsh and inconsiderate policy that will worsen the financial strain on Nigerians. In a statement on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the government for approving the hike, accusing it of prioritizing corporate profits over the well-being of its citizens.
“This increase is another burden placed on Nigerians who are already struggling with rising costs of living. It shows a lack of concern for the welfare of the people,” Ajaero stated.
The NLC urged the government to reverse the decision and focus on policies that protect citizens’ interests rather than further compounding their economic hardships.
