The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy have been instructed by the House of Representatives to halt the recently authorised 50% increase in telecom rates.
This decision was made while the new price structure was being implemented by telecom companies, such as MTN Nigeria.
Lawmakers contend that, particularly in light of growing inflation and the elimination of fuel subsidies, the rate increase makes things more expensive for Nigerians.
The House stressed that before discussing price increases, telecom firms should solve ongoing problems with subpar network performance.
There are worries that small businesses that depend on reasonably priced services for operations, marketing, and customer interaction may suffer as a result of rising telecommunications costs.
The tariff rise has been supported by the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), which claims it is necessary for the long-term viability of the industry. ALTON’s Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, highlighted that continued underinvestment could lead to a reduction in service quality.
