The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially rolled out its comprehensive telecom tariff adjustment plan, marking the first major price revision in the telecommunications sector since 2013. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced today that the new tariff structure will be implemented across all major service providers including MTN, Airtel, and Glo, effective January 25, 2025.
*Current vs. New Tariff Rates:*
*Voice Calls*
- Previous Rate: ₦11 per minute
- New Rate: ₦15.40 per minute
- Percentage Increase: 40%
*Data Plans*
- 1GB Bundle (Previous): ₦350
- 1GB Bundle (New): ₦490
- 2GB Bundle (Previous): ₦500
- 2GB Bundle (New): ₦700
- 5GB Bundle (Previous): ₦1,500
- 5GB Bundle (New): ₦2100
*SMS Rates*
- Previous Rate: ₦4 per SMS
- New Rate: ₦5.60 per SMS
- Percentage Increase: 40%
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, speaking at an emergency press briefing this morning, defended the tariff adjustment as a necessary measure to sustain the telecommunications industry amid rising operational costs and currency devaluation. However, the announcement has triggered immediate reactions from various stakeholders.
The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has already filed an emergency petition with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), seeking a review of the implementation timeline.
This latest development comes as telecommunications companies report unprecedented increases in operational expenses, citing a 200% surge in power costs and a 185% rise in diesel prices over the past year.
MTN Nigeria, the country's largest telecom provider, stated in a press release today that the new tariffs are essential for maintaining service quality and network expansion.
Meanwhile, consumer rights groups are organizing nationwide protests scheduled for next week, arguing that the timing of this increase coincides with already challenging economic conditions for the average Nigerian.
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