NCC – Tariff Hike Will Enhance Service Quality

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reassured Nigerians that the recently approved tariff adjustments for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are strategic steps designed to enhance service quality and promote the long-term sustainability of the telecommunications sector.

While speaking in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida represented by the Acting Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha stated that the newly approved tariffs are aiding in restoring profitability for telecom operators who have been significantly impacted by foreign exchange difficulties in recent years.

“About two years ago, some major operators were recording significant losses. Although revenues were increasing, heavy forex-related obligations wiped out much of the gains, which directly impacted service quality,” Dr. Maida explained.

“With the recent tariff review, operators are returning to profitability, enabling them to reinvest in network infrastructure. This will result in noticeable improvements in service quality and user experience nationwide.”

Dr. Maida announced that telecom sector investments are projected to surge in 2025, surpassing the levels of the previous two years.

Regarding tariff setting, he explained that Nigeria’s liberalized telecom industry adopts a transparent, data-driven process, with the Commission conducting thorough, cost-based studies before approving new tariff structures.

“Operators must provide comprehensive cost breakdowns to justify proposed tariffs. This allows the Commission to ensure charges remain fair, cost-oriented, and in line with economic and technical realities,” he stated.

Although consumers are not directly involved in the tariff-setting process due to its technical complexities, Dr. Maida stressed that the NCC remains a firm guardian of consumer interests by thoroughly reviewing all submissions from telecom operators.

Speaking on wider industry challenges, the EVC pointed to persistent issues such as fibre cuts, problems with identity verification, infrastructure vandalism, rising energy costs, and restrictions related to Rights of Way (RoW). He noted that the Commission is actively working with key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to protect telecom infrastructure and ensure that vandals are prosecuted.

“We are committed to naming and shaming perpetrators and are working with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure that cases of infrastructure damage are fully prosecuted,” he said.

Dr. Maida reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to the national framework for Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), overseen by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

“Telecom infrastructure is critical to national security and economic growth. Any individual or group found disrupting it will face the full weight of the law,” he warned, highlighting the importance of protecting telecom assets.

The NCC emphasized its ongoing commitment to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders, particularly in sharing accurate details about tariffs and industry benchmarks.

“It is not the public’s responsibility to monitor operator pricing. That’s our mandate,” Dr. Maida concluded, adding that the NCC remains open to partnerships and will continue providing dependable data on telecom tariffs and performance indicators.

Dr. Maida urged the media and public to maintain their support as the NCC strengthens its initiatives to improve digital connectivity, consumer satisfaction, and service reliability throughout Nigeria.