FCCPC Urges Telecom Operators to Improve Services After Tariff Hike

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called on telecom operators to prioritize service improvements following the recent approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In a statement released on Wednesday via its official X handle, the FCCPC recognized the financial pressures faced by telecom operators due to rising operational costs. However, it stressed that consumer interests must always remain at the forefront of any tariff adjustments. “We unequivocally state that consumer interests remain paramount,” the FCCPC declared, emphasizing that any tariff increase must result in tangible service quality improvements.

The FCCPC also commended the NCC for its thoughtful approach in approving the tariff hike, noting that the increase was significantly lower than the over 100% hike originally proposed by telecom operators. The commission praised the NCC for linking the tariff adjustment to measurable service improvements and efforts to alleviate financial burdens on consumers. “We commend the NCC for adopting a deliberate and measured approach by rationalising the tariff adjustment and linking it to commensurate improvements in service quality,” the FCCPC stated.

As part of its commitment to transparency, the FCCPC welcomed the new NCC directive requiring telecom operators to disclose full details of their plans. Operators must now provide clear information on costs, validity periods, and benefits upfront. A mandatory disclosure table will also be introduced, enabling consumers to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected charges. “Consumers should no longer have to worry about hidden charges or unexpected costs,” the FCCPC emphasized.

Despite these changes, the FCCPC acknowledged ongoing dissatisfaction among consumers due to poor service quality, including issues such as network congestion, dropped calls, slow internet speeds, and inadequate customer support. The commission reiterated that any tariff adjustments must lead to visible improvements in these areas. “It is crucial that tariff adjustments directly translate into demonstrable and tangible service enhancements,” the FCCPC said.

Referring to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the NCC, the FCCPC reaffirmed its joint commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, and eliminating exploitative practices in the telecom sector. The MoU ensures that regulatory and pricing changes are balanced with consumer interests. “Operators must prioritize visible and measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, accessibility, and customer service as part of any tariff adjustment,” the FCCPC stressed.

Finally, the FCCPC urged telecom operators to direct the additional revenue from the tariff increase towards infrastructure development and service enhancements. The commission emphasized the need for clear mechanisms to monitor how these funds are used for consumer benefit. “Operators must clearly communicate the rationale for the tariff adjustments to consumers, ensuring they are fully informed about how these changes will improve service delivery and infrastructure,” the FCCPC concluded.

This call to action highlights the FCCPC’s ongoing efforts to ensure telecom consumers receive better services, even in the face of rising tariffs, and encourages telecom operators to remain accountable in their service improvements.